Zodiak Nederland lands Eyeworks development chief

Zodiak Nederland has hired former Eyeworks Nederland producer Jan Hendrik Smeenge has head of development.

Smeenge (left) was formerly Eyeworks Nederland’s head of development, but is now joining the new look Dutch Zodiak, which brought on former Fox International Channels Benelux general programme director Peter Lubbers in March.

He is replacing Tatiana Lagewaard, who joined former Zodiak Nederlands CEO Roy Aalderink at Strix Nederland last month.

Starting in August, Smeege will be responsible for development, and creating international formats that will begin life in the Dutch market. He has been with Eyeworks, which is now part of Warner Bros., for four years.

“Zodiak Nederland remains focused on developing successful factual entertainment concepts, in addition to Zodiak Media’s strong international catalogue,” said Lubbers. “Jan Hendrik and his team will play a crucial role in this.”

Recent Zodiak Nederland productions include season three of MasterChef for Net5, season two of Celebrity Wife Swap for RTL4 and the first season of Long Live The Spring for EO/Nederland 1. The prodco is also behind Legal Road Show, Fort Boyard, Road Hogs, Well Sick, Save My Holiday, The Undateables, Cougar Love, Embarrassing Bodies and Operation Live.

“Zodiak Nederland has a clear profile and a strong position in the Dutch market,” said Smeenge. “I’m looking forward to bringing new creative input to the table and build on Zodiak’s brand, together with the team and management.”