Cyber Group hires Goldsmith for US expansion

France’s Cyber Group Studios is moving into the US and has hired former Jim Henson distribution chief Richard Goldsmith to helm a new LA office.

Goldsmith exited The Jim Henson Company in December ahead of a new role, details of which were not forthcoming at the time.

He will run the Culver City-based Cyber Group Studios USA as president and CEO, aiding the Paris-based animation firm to expand its production and distribution activities.

Goldsmith, a former Warner Bros. Entertainment exec, will also sit on the Cyber Group executive management board, which is based in Paris, and head up programme distribution in North America, China, Australia and New Zealand.

Furthemore, Goldsmith will look at acquiring new businesses, intellectual property and other opportunities “that will benefit the company globally”.

Cyber Group has successfully raised cash for expansion on a number of occasions in recent years.

“We are very excited that such a talented individual as Richard has decided to join us, as his experience will be instrumental in furthering our growth in untapped areas and make our company even more global,” said Pierre Sissmann, chairman and CEO of Cyber Group Studios.

Cyber Group struck a two-series coproduction deal with Jim Henson in March 2015, with both companies contributing finance to Jim Henson’s Enchanted Sisters and Boubouh!.

“I have known Richard for many years already, not only as a talented executive but as a personal friend, and I am looking forward to working with him now directly to launch a new era of growth for our business.”

Cyber Group is currently in the throws of launching new toon Mirette Investigates, and also counts Zou, Zorro the Chronicles and Ozzie Boo on its slate.

“I have admired Cyber Group Studios’ rapid rise as a leader in animated entertainment, and am now delighted to join the management team as the company becomes truly global with its production, distribution and consumer products businesses,” said Goldsmith.

His hire comes after another international distribution veteran, Raphaelle Mathieu, joined in September to replace Marie Congé, who joined compatriot toon firm Go-N.