Penguin Random House UK hires BBCS exec to drive IP adaptations

Jenna Brown

Penguin Random House UK – a division of German giant Bertelsmann – has appointed former BBC Studios (BBCS) exec Jenna Brown to a newly created role overseeing rights deals for its IP.

Brown becomes head of media rights at the UK publisher, with a remit to find partners to develop Penguin Random House authors’ work into film, TV, radio or theatre productions. She reports to Chantal Noel, group rights director.

The exec was most recently strategy & business development manager at BBCS, responsible for working across the content strategy for its investment and partnerships, as well as reviewing and developing scripted projects into commercially viable propositions for TV. Prior to that, she worked for BBC and Channel 4.

Her appointment comes as parent Bertelsmann looks to use companies under its umbrella – including Fremantle and music firm BMG – as part of its recently established Content Alliance initiative, which aims to create group-wide formats and marketing opportunities.

Noel said: “At a time when the demand for creative content has never been higher, one of our strategic priorities has been to look at how we can deliver more licensing opportunities for our books, specifically in the media and entertainment space. So I’m delighted to welcome Jenna into this exciting new role and thrilled that we’ll be able to draw on her expertise from across the film and TV industry.

“With Jenna’s appointment, we will be able to represent our authors via a proven media professional who is also uniquely placed to work in a joined up way with our publishing teams in order maximise opportunities across our adult and children’s catalogue.”

Brown added: “My aim is to find the very best homes for our authors’ works to be developed into world class screen and stage productions. I can’t wait to share the original, distinctive stories Penguin Random House has to offer with producers from around the world.”