Thunderbird staffs up, opens LA office

Thunderbird Films is opening an LA office and has recruited several new staff.

The Canadian producer and distributor said that its new LA base would act as “a springboard for the creation of new television ventures and collaborations” as it continues to expand. The company announced last week that it was creating a joint venture TV production unit with Lionsgate, Sea To Sky Entertainment.

Thunderbird has hired Joe Broido as executive VP, Jeffrey Engelen as senior VP, distribution and Danielle Kreinik as manager of development.

“Having a presence in Los Angeles’ creative community and operating among Hollywood’s key decision makers will certainly augment the impressive portfolio of successful shows that the company’s Canadian headquarters has generated to date,” said Michael Shepard, president, Thunderbird Films. “Being able to blend the benefits of operations in both countries creates a plethora of exciting new possibilities.”

The recent wave of appointments and news from Thunderbird follows Lionsgate founder and former chairman Frank Giustra buying into the company this month.