Penn, who currently oversees FremantleMedia’s operations in the Asia Pacific, will take over from former general manager Tony Iffland, replacing interim leader Blair McQuade in the role. McQuade will become the chief commercial officer for Australasia, reporting directly to Penn.
Penn will be responsible for the territory’s profit and loss, and will report to president of BBC Worldwide Global Brands U.K. and Australasia Marcus Arthur, who is based in London.
From 2011 to 2012, BBC Worldwide Australasia increased revenue by nine per cent on the previous year, generating $140 million, while Australia and New Zealand were the designated territory for the BBC to pilot their global BBC iPlayer.
Penn founded the FremantleMedia Enterprises’ brand licensing and interactive media division in Australia in 2001. Promoted to CEO of FremantleMedia Enterprises Asia-Pacific in 2009 and has a reputation for building multi-platform brand franchises out of TV shows.
