A+E hires Joel Denton as content sales supremo

A+E has recruited Joel Denton as managing director, content sales and partnerships, putting the industry veteran in charge of all of the channel operator’s international sales activities, TBI has learned.

Denton is one of the most seasoned executives in the international business, and has been consulting for A+E, working on its programme sales strategy. His previous TV experience includes stints running Red Arrow Entertainment with James Baker, a period in which he engineered the acquisitions of UK indies Mob Television, CPL, Endor and NERD.

It is understood he will replace Marielle Zuccarelli, who was senior VP, international content distribution.

He has also worked for UK pay TV operator BSkyB and producer/distributors FremantleMedia and RHI Entertainment and its forbear Hallmark.

In recent months Denton has been working with Antony Fraser, the former Ingenious Ventures boss, on his new venture Rare TV, which recently acquired UK indie 360 Production.

In his new London-based role, Denton will oversee distribution of A+E’s finished programmes as well as formats, managing sales execs based in A+E’s London, New York and Singapore-based sales execs. The company’s 11,000 library includes programming from its A&E, History, H2 and Lifetime channels as well as the fledgling FYI and LMN services.

Key A+E titles include Duck Dynasty, Pawn Stars and Dance Moms. The scripted side of the business is also being built with an original content studio in the US delivering titles for international sale, alongside the roster of Lifetime TV movies already in the library.

As well as overseeing sales and presales, Denton has also been tasked with putting together drama coproductions as A+E moves more heavily into scripted.

He will report to Sean Cohan, executive VP, international for A+E Networks. Cohan said: “Joel is a highly experienced international media executive and we are very pleased to welcome him to A+E Networks.”

He added: “His distribution background will further strengthen our talented international team, while his expertise in scripted financing will be an important asset to the international growth of our burgeoning premium drama business.”