Banijay Entertainment has named Cathy Payne to lead its combined global distribution business following the completion of its $8 billion merger with All3Media, while All3Media International CEO Louise Pedersen is stepping down.
Payne, who currently serves as CEO of Banijay Rights, will remain in the role as the company combines Banijay Rights and All3Media International under the Banijay Rights banner.
Pedersen, a well-respected executive, said she was proud of what she achieved during her tenure and added that it felt “like a good time to think about the next challenge.”
The announcement comes a day after Banijay and RedBird IMI officially completed their blockbuster merger, creating what chair Jeff Zucker described in an interview with Variety on Thursday, shortly after the deal closed, as “the largest independent production company in the world.”
The London-headquartered Banijay Entertainment brings together Banijay’s stable of hit formats and scripted titles, including “Big Brother,” “MasterChef,” “Peaky Blinders” and “Black Mirror,” with All3Media’s portfolio, including “The Traitors,” “Undercover Boss” and “Gogglebox.” Marco Bassetti is leading the combined company as CEO, with Zucker serving as chair and former All3Media CEO Jane Turton becoming deputy CEO. The All3Media corporate name is also being retired.
