Argonon’s Leopard hires first CCO

The US division of producer Leopard has brought on Simon McKeown as its first chief creative officer.

Working out of Leopard USA’s New York base, McKeown will report to James Burstall, CEO of the prodco’s parent company, Argonon.

He has been tasked with leading Leopard USA’s creative expansion and will oversee the new and existing Leopard slate. McKeown joins from US indie Eastern Productions and his programming credits include K Michelle: My Life and Love and Hiphop: The Afterparty Live! for VH1.

Prior to Eastern, he was head of development for Jane Root’s prodco Nutopia, working on projects including Britain’s Biggest Adventures with Bear Grylls and The Jesus Code.

Burstall said: “Simon is a brilliant ideas man and a shrewd, insightful executive. He has a sharp eye for creative opportunities and is an inspiring new leader for Leopard USA.”

McKeown added: “The US market is in such an exciting place right now and I’m hoping to help Leopard USA build on its exceptional reputation for innovation, creativity and quality.”

Leopard USA also recently hired Richard Cook as vice president of talent.