Banijay ups Ambra’s Cipriano

Banijay Group has upped Filippo Cipriano to managing director of its Italian prodco Ambra.

Ambra was established by Marco Bassetti after he left Endemol and before he took on his current role as CEO of Banijay Group. Since his appointment, it is 50%-owned by Banijay and has been renamed Ambra Banijay Italy.

Banijay launched NonPanic, an Italian prodco that sat under the Ambra umbrella, with Cipriano in late 2013. He held a 5% stake in the business when it launched. He has been elevated from chief creative officer at  Ambra.

Bassetti said: “I’m very pleased that Filippo has accepted this important new position. I believe that by appointing a creative in an executive role we will strengthen our company through the development of new projects, increasing our ability to offer innovative formats to traditional broadcasters and new platforms.

“This move is part of Banijay Group’s new strategic plan and involves all our local companies.”

Ambra makes entertainment and scripted programming. Recent commissions include Rai primetime entertainment shows  Senza Parole. It is also making a second season of talent series Si Può Fare (I Can Do That!).

Cipriano said: “I firmly believe in this project and in the ambitious goals the group wants to achieve with a clear strategy driven by strong innovation. The new role is a great personal and professional challenge for me and one I simply couldn’t refuse.”