NBCUniversal creates new EMEA structure

Satpal Brainch

NBCUniversal International today is creating what it describes as a multi-territory, regional hub aligning its distribution and networks business in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

NBCUniversal said that the new structure completes the company’s strategy of creating multi-territory regional hubs, following the integration of its businesses in Latin America and Asia.

Satpal Brainch has been promoted to the newly created role of MD, Distribution and Networks, EMEA. In this role, Brainch will lead the company’s television business across Europe, Middle East and Africa, driving content distribution and channels for the region from the company’s London headquarters, reporting to Belinda Menendez, President, NBCUI Distribution & Networks.

Carolyn Stalins has been appointed Senior Vice President, Distribution, EMEA. In this new role, Stalins will relocate from Paris to the company’s London headquarters to lead NBCUI’s content distribution across the region, reporting to Brainch. Both appointments are effective immediately.

In a separate development, Don McGregor, EVP, International Distribution, who continues to lead and oversee NBCU International’s Distribution and New Media business, will take on the additional responsibility of driving sales. In this expanded role, continuing to report to Menendez, McGregor will relocate from London to Los Angeles in November where he’ll collaborate with the company’s LA-based functions including Product, Marketing and Research.

Brainch was previously Executive Vice President and MD, NBCU International Networks, responsible for the overall business strategy of the NBCUniversal International Networks’ portfolio, including Universal Channel, E!, Syfy, 13^th Street, Studio Universal and Diva.

Stalins was previously based in the company’s Paris office, most recently as MD, Southern Europe, distribution and networks with oversight of both businesses across France, Iberia and Italy.

“Evolving our EMEA structure is a key milestone – aligning with our successful approach in Latin America and Asia – ensuring that we are optimally positioned to harness opportunities across the region for both Distribution and Networks. I am delighted to have the combined expertise of Satpal and Carolyn at the helm,” said Menendez.

“As part of increasing our focus on providing more integrated solutions for our clients, I am thrilled to have Don leading the way. In over 13 years in London, Don has contributed a great deal to the growth of NBCU International’s Distribution business and I know that we’ll benefit from his expanded leadership, based out of LA.”