Mutimer replaces Macallister at Zodiak Rights

Tim Mutimer has replaced Steve Macallister as CEO of Zodiak Media’s sales arm, Zodiak Rights.

Macallister had held the top post after replacing Matthew Frank in January, but has has resigned. His former BBC Worldwide colleague Mutimer (left), who is Zodiak Rights’ head of non-scripted, has stepped up to replace him.

“Having worked at Zodiak for the last year through an important transitional phase, I have decided to move on at the end of the year as I believe the role is no longer right for me,” said Macallister (below right).

“I am absolutely delighted that Tim has agreed to take over the reins and I know that he will be phenomenal in moving the business forward.”

“Steve has played a pivotal role in the last year at Zodiak Rights,” said Zodiak Media CEO Marc-Antoine d’Halluin. “I would like to thank him for all that he has contributed to the group and wish him all the best going forward. I’m delighted Tim is in place for a seamless transition, with his knowledge and experience of the business and industry he is the perfect fit to grow our global rights business.”

Mutimer joined Zodiak Rights from the BBC’s commercial arm in 2013 to helm sales and acquisitions of non-scripted programming. While at the BBC, he was responsible for managing sales strategy for key brands including Top Gear and Torchwood.

Macallister will stay with Zodiak Rights to the end of the year and aid the transition. Mutimer will report to d’Halluin in his new post.

“I’m truly excited by the opportunity to lead Zodiak Rights to the next stage, working with the great team at Rights, our production companies around the world and our partner producers to bring strong new formats and hit series to viewers everywhere.”

Macallister’s exit comes as a surprise, having only joined this year after leaving BBCWW, where he was president and managing director of sales and distribution. His departure comes following a spate of hires that followed d’Halluin’s appointment as chief executive of Zodiak Media and the departure of former incumbent CEO David Frank.

Ten Zodiak companies welcomed new bosses, with Macallister’s appointment considered internally as a key hire.

Zodiak Rights’ key unscripted series include Fort Boyard, Wife Swap and Secret Millionaire.