Banijay appoints former Banijay Studios France COO to new group chief business officer role

Frédéric Balmary

Banijay has appointed the former COO of its Banijay Studios France division to a newly created role responsible for broadening innovation and growth opportunities at the producer-distributor.

Frédéric Balmary becomes chief business officer at the group and is tasked with leading its long-term strategic plan, reporting to Banijay CEO, Marco Bassetti.

He will remain “a core business development partner” to Banijay’s scripted team, which is soon to be led by Christian Wikander.

Balmary joined Banijay in 2011 – prior to its acquisitions of Zodiak Media and Endemol Shine Group – initially as financial controller, before moving up to become deputy CFO and most recently chief of staff.

He also held roles including COO of Banijay Studios International and Banijay Studios France, charged with leading the operations for the scripted production activity in France, while also supporting all international development projects in unison with Banijay Rights.

Bassetti said: “In light of our recent and rapid expansion, this key supporting role has never been more vital. As a group, we continue to strive when it comes to innovation and organic growth, and with Frédéric, I have a close partner who can support in further developing our organisation and activities around the world, while also driving best practice across our mounting scripted offering.”

Balmary added that he was “proud to be expanding my remit with it and look forward to continuing the work with Marco and our stakeholders on further building on the group’s long-term success trajectory.”

Banijay last week reported a 16.5% revenue increase last year to hit €3.2bn ($3.4bn), up on the €2.75bn in 2021.

The earnings report, posted by parent company FL Entertainment, was Banijay’s first full-year results since its $2.2bn acquisition of Endemol Shine Group and since going public at the start of this year.