FremantleMedia Shakeup: Thom Beers Out, 2 Promoted to co-CEO
Thom Beers is set to exit as CEO of FremantleMedia North America after three years in the post. He’ll be replaced by exec VPs Jennifer Mullin and Craig Cegielski, who have been promoted to co-CEOs of the production company behind “American Idol,” “America’s Got Talent” and a host of other series.
Beers said he would exit this summer at the expiration of his contract. Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of parent company Fremantle, praised Beers for having “made great strides for the U.S. business.”
Beers is a veteran producer who sold his Original Prods. to Fremantle in 2010 and two years later moved into the top job. He’s likely to return to the producing trenches.
“It’s been an unbelievable ride, and I’ve been fortunate to build an incredibly talented team. We’ve launched shows in syndication and primetime; premiered our first scripted drama; created Buzzr, the company’s first linear channel; and leaped into the digital content business with Tiny Riot,” Beers said. “I’m forever thankful to Cecile for her collaborative style, brilliant leadership and friendship. I couldn’t be more energized about FMNA’s future, and I’m proud to pass the baton to two of my favorite powerhouses, Jennifer Mullin and Craig Cegielski.”
Mullin had been exec VP of current series, having climbed the ranks since joining the company in 2005. Cegielski joined in 2013 as head of scripted programming.
“I thank Cecile for this opportunity and her commitment to drive excellence for the business globally,” Mullin said. Said Cegielski: “Over the past two years, we’ve launched one series on air and sold over a dozen projects into development, while partnering with some of the greatest talent in the industry.”
(Pictured: Jennifer Mullin, Craig Cegielski)
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