Studio TF1 brings in David O’Donoghue as exec VP to boost English-language slate
Studio TF1, the production and distribution arm of France’s TF1 Group, has appointed David O’Donoghue as executive VP of international as it looks to grow its slate of English-language projects.
Formerly known as Newen Studios, prior to its rebrand earlier this year as Studio TF1, the company is working towards further international growth with the help of locally relevant productions and global partnerships, and is eyeing more scripted English-language projects.
London-based O’Donoghue will join the group at the end of July, reporting to Pierre Branco, CEO of Studio TF1.
He will be responsible for collaborating with the group’s production companies operating in 11 markets internationally on the growth of their businesses, as well as leading Studio TF1’s global IP strategy, and driving coproductions and business development opportunities worldwide in collaboration with the wider group.
With over 50 production companies and labels, Studio TF1 is one of Europe’s leading audiovisual and film production and distribution companies.
Located in Europe, the US and Canada, Studio TF1 works across fiction and daily series as well as film, documentaries, magazine shows, animation and entertainment. TF1 is France’s biggest commercial TV network and is part of TF1 Group, which is controlled by the Bouygues conglomerate.
O’Donoghue was most recently chief operating officer of transatlantic management and production group 42, where he was responsible for operations and business development.
Prior to that, he was head of studio for Universal International Studios, where he was responsible for the division’s business operations, where he expanded its coproduction business in the UK and Europe.
He previously served as chief operating officer and then joint MD of Carnival Films as it grew to become one of the UK’s leading scripted producers with shows such as Downton Abbey. He also previously served as executive VP of business affairs at Universal International Studios.
Branco said: “David’s experience with major players like Universal Studios and Carnival Films, along with his in-depth knowledge of the English and American media markets, will be invaluable in accelerating our international expansion and IP strategy. His arrival underscores Studio TF1’s ambition to further establish itself as a global leader in the media industry.”
O’Donoghue said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Studio TF1 and to be part of a group with real ambition for growth and such commitment to producing for audiences around the world. The opportunity to collaborate with the studio’s outstanding producers across Europe, Canada and the US is truly unique, and I look forward to working with the teams in Paris and beyond as we continue to build an ambitious and international slate.”
