Filmnation TV UK Hires BBC Studios Productions’ Commercial Scripted Chief Martin Rakusen
deadline.comFilmNation TV UK has hired a key BBC Studios drama exec as it builds out its slate. Martin Rakusen has joined Creative Director Kirstie Macdonald’s team as COO.In the role, Rakusen will lead all business, operational and financial activity while building and maintaining strategic partnerships for the producer, which is a joint venture between FilmNation Entertainment and Viaplay Group.He’ll work closely with Macdonald on funding, strategy and deal structures and finance plans.
He also lead on international television distribution strategy, deal-making, and relationships, and lead business negotiations with IP owners, agents, commissioners, financiers, co-producers and distributors.
At BBC Studios, he held a similar role, leading on strategic and commercial activities in drama and comedy.Rakusen began his career at the BBC before moving to RDF as Director, Commercial Development for Drama, Children’s and Branded Content.
He then worked in LA for Shine International, latterly as COO when he and the company moved back to London. He later joined BBC Worldwide (now BBC Studios), where he aimed to grow scripted operations, including subsidiary production companies.
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