WildBrain has rejigged some executive roles to oversee a streamlined operating structure that’s designed to serve three core functions: content creation, audience engagement and global licensing.

The company has hired former Entertainment One (eOne) EVP and GM Nick Gawne (pictured) as CFO. Gawne succeeds former CFO Aaron Ames, who will stay on in an advisory capacity for the transition, according to a news release.

As part of the executive realignment, chief content officer Stephanie Betts is now EVP of content creation, with an expanded remit that includes overseeing the Vancouver animation studio, the London-based digital studio (previously known as WildBrain Spark) and the House of Cool pre-production studio in Toronto.

Kate Smith, formerly VP of marketing, will handle all YouTube network business in her new role as EVP of audience engagement. She is also in charge of content distribution, YouTube network operations and digital marketing.

Maarten Weck, formerly EVP and managing director of licensing agency WildBrain CPLG, is now EVP of global partnerships and licensing. He will continue to head up WildBrain CPLG, but now also oversees all of the company’s IP partnerships.

All three execs report to Josh Scherba, president and CEO of WildBrain, along with Gawne.

These exec changes come in the wake of last month’s news that WildBrain COO Deirdre Brennan has been tapped to lead Screen Australia as CEO starting in January.

WildBrain released its Q1 2024 financials yesterday, reporting revenue of $105.5 million, down from $126.7 million in the same period last year.

The company’s priority now, with its simplified executive structure, is to focus on key franchises such as Peanuts, Teletubbies and Strawberry Shortcake, which can generate the greatest returns, said Scherba in a release.

A version of this story originally appeared in Kidscreen

Image courtesy of WildBrain