LA prodco 1895 Films ups Smithsonian alum amid branded content push

Dana DeSanto

US producer 1895 Films is expanding its short form and branded content business, with Dana DeSanto appointed as SVP of sales & marketing for the LA-based outfit.

Former Smithsonian Channel exec DeSanto will also oversee partnerships for the firm and reports to COO Ellen Farmer.

DeSanto’s recent development deals for the new division include tech company Cisco and the Parks Channel.

Prior to joining 1895 Films, DeSanto was VP of network partnerships for Smithsonian Channel where she worked closely with the 1895 Films team on projects including The Lost Tapes.

Farmer said: “Dana has a natural ability to develop long standing and successful partnerships for brands. Her expansive knowledge of marketing and vast experience with high profile, multiplatform brands will be a strong addition to the 1895 Films team as we continue to grow our short and long-form content business.”

The prodco last year launched a podcast division called Artifactual, which produces audio accompaniments to programming.