Marblemedia is expanding its scripted division with its first L.A.-based hire, bringing on former Disney Channel star A.J. Trauth (pictured, right) as VP, kids, and expanding its Toronto roster.

In the newly created role, Trauth will develop original kids-targeted scripted projects and build relationships with on and off-screen talent for new IP. He has worked in the film and TV industry for more than 20 years, first as an onscreen talent on series such as Even Stevens and Pepper Dennis, before becoming an indie producer in scripted TV for kids and families. Trauth will report to marblemedia co-CEO Mark Bishop

The L.A. hire “reaffirms [marblemedia’s] scripted growth strategy in working directly with streamers and U.S. buyers,” according to Bishop, in a statement, with plans to continue to produce content in Toronto.

The scripted division has also grown back in the Toronto headquarters, with VP, scripted Carrie Paupst Shaughnessy’s (pictured, left) remit expanding to executive producer of all scripted programming at marblemedia, in addition to her responsibilities with creative development. Joining her team in Toronto is Sam Schleifer, who has come on board as scripted development executive. Schleifer previously worked as a producer and showrunner assistant on Vancouver-based productions such as Deadpool and The Good Doctor.

The increased investment in its scripted division follows marblemedia’s previously announced strategy to develop more prime time content, including comedies and kids adventure series. The prodco optioned M.G. Hennessey’s novel The Other Boy, which follows a transgender boy going through puberty, earlier this year to develop as a family-targeted drama series.