BritBox International recruits former CBS exec as EVP, North America

SVOD platform BritBox International has named former Hulu and CBS executive Robert Schildhouse as EVP, North America and general manager, group marketing services. In his new role, Schildhouse will oversee business development, commercial relationships, programming and performance marketing for BritBox North America.

Robert Schildhouse

Schildhouse will report to BritBox International CEO Reemah Sakaan, who said: “As we continue to drive the growth of our North America business, Robert will bring his proven expertise in leading innovative streaming and content businesses to our organisation. It’s an exciting and pivotal time for BritBox and I’m thrilled to be adding him to our passionate team, bringing the best of British to North America.”

Schildhouse takes up his role at a time when the ITV and BBC-backed platform is rolling out internationally. Key markets at time of writing include North America, Australia, South Africa and the Nordics. He said: “I’ve admired BritBox’s unique offer for some time, and how the business has gone from strength to strength globally, and built such loyal fandom. I can’t wait to help drive its further growth, working with Reemah and her talented team, and our partners at BBC Studios and ITV.”

The streamer’s current slate includes Stonehouse, Beyond Paradise, Three Little Birds, The Confessions of Frannie Langton and Archie. In North America, it recently premiered crime drama Sherwood and will launch ITV drama Karen Pirie this week.

Schildhouse joined Hulu prior to its launch in 2008 and rose to become head of its content acquisition department. Later, he joined CBS Global Distribution Group as senior VP, digital licensing and distribution, and was subsequently promoted to exec VP, responsible for monetising the rights of the CBS and Showtime libraries in the streaming market. After that, he was promoted to exec VP of business development, responsible for spearheading the strategy to expand CBS’s global footprint.