A+E Global Media has hired Chris Stewart, a veteran of Banijay Distribution, to lead its sales efforts in the UK, Ireland and Germany. The move comes a week after Deadline revealed Stewart was among those who had left Banijay Rights following a shakeup that followed the merger of Banajay Entertainment with All3Media.
Stewart joins as VP, Content Sales and will be based in the UK. At Banijay, he held the role of SVP, UK and Ireland.
The Hire and the Shakeup
Patrick Vien, Group Managing Director, International at A+E, praised Stewart’s background. “Chris brings a rare breadth of experience across sales, acquisitions, programming and content financing, along with a deep understanding of what buyers need in an increasingly complex marketplace,” Vien said.
Vien also noted Stewart’s commercial instincts and industry relationships. “His commercial instincts, strong industry relationships and ability to identify opportunities across platforms will be tremendous assets as we continue to expand the reach of A+E Global Media’s content across these key markets.”
The timing is notable. Deadline revealed Stewart’s exit from Banijay Rights a week before A+E announced his new role.
Stewart’s Career Path
Stewart’s resume runs through some of the biggest names in British television. Earlier in his career, he served as Commercial Director, Scripted at Banijay Rights.
Before that, he held the position of Head of Drama at BBC Studios predecessor BBC Worldwide. His career began at 2Entertain, the BBC Worldwide joint venture with high-street store Woolworths.
The progression shows a steady rise through sales and programming roles across scripted television.
What A+E Is Selling Now
A+E is heading to MIPCOM Cannes this month. The company has already commissioned several shows this year, including:
- History’s Strange Fortunes with Kevin’s Bacon
- Extraordinary Origins with Ted Danson
- Buried in Barstow 2: Blood for Blood
Stewart’s role will involve selling these titles into the UK, Ireland and German markets.
The Markets at Stake
Stewart’s appointment covers three of Europe’s largest television markets.
Why MIPCOM Matters
MIPCOM is the annual global marketplace for television rights, where distributors meet to buy and sell series and formats.
The Bottom Line
A+E Global Media has hired a proven sales executive from a competitor. The strategy is straightforward: bring in someone who knows the buyers and the marketplace.
Stewart’s hire adds a senior sales presence to A+E’s international team.
Key Facts Box
– Stewart joins as VP, Content Sales
– Based in the UK, covering UK, Ireland and Germany
– Exit from Banijay Rights revealed a week before the announcement
– Formerly SVP, UK and Ireland at Banijay
– Previously Commercial Director, Scripted at Banijay Rights
– Former Head of Drama at BBC Studios predecessor BBC Worldwide
– Began career at 2Entertain, the BBC Worldwide joint venture with Woolworths
The hire is a win for A+E. Stewart arrives with market knowledge and buyer connections that took years to build. Whether the timing will be remembered as a quirk or a strategic coup remains to be seen.
Source material: “A+E Global Media Hires Banijay Distribution Veteran Chris Stewart,” Deadline.
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