Exclusive: Banijay’s NL Film rejigs senior leadership, with Dennis Cornelisse named MD

L-R: Dennis Cornelisse & Wynand Chocolaad (Source: Banijay)

Banijay Benelux is reorganising the senior team of its Amsterdam-based Modern Love prodco NL Film, with Dennis Cornelisse taking over as managing director and Wynand Chocolaad rejoining as head of productions.

Both begin their new roles with immediate effect, with Cornelisse promoted from his previous role as producer to replace Alex Doff, COO of Banijay Benelux, who will step back from the lead of NL Film, which he joined in March 2022.

Cornelisse, who has worked on productions including The Golden Hour, Anoniem, Rundfunk, Neem Me Mee and De Regels Van Floor, will take over the strategic direction of NL Film and strengthen its development slate.

Chocolaad, meanwhile, rejoins the company as head of productions from the same role at Lemming Film. This is his third stint at NL Film, having served as production manager from 2005 to 2008 and then returning as line producer from 2010 to 2021, where he built, and subsequently maintained strong ties with the creative team.

In addition to supervising all productions, Chocolaad will ensure departments are “fully supported and maximised,” said Banijay.

Peter Lubbers, CEO at Banijay Benelux, said: “Dennis’ deep knowledge of the world of films and drama series combined with his experience, proven track record, and leadership, make him the perfect candidate to take on NL Film. I look forward to seeing the next phase of growth and creative ambition he will bring to the label.”

NL Film is behind titles including Modern Love for Amazon streamer Prime Video and NPO shows Het Gouden Uur, Jos, Anoniem, Commando’s and Doodstil as well as the feature films Costa!! and Penoza: The Final Chapter.

Last year, Banijay Benelux hired Soof 3 director Anne de Clercq to lead a new-look creative team at NL Film and to lead its ‘Creative Room’, to develop new stories and acquire IP to strengthen the business.