MUMBAI – FremantleMedia, one of the largest creators, producers and distributors of television brands in the world, today announced the promotion of Executive Producer Chris O’Dell to Head of Global  Entertainment Production.

Reporting to the Director of Global Entertainment, Rob Clark, Chris will oversee and be the first point of contact for FremantleMedia’s international production teams as they roll out formats such as X Factor, Got Talent, Idols and Farmer Wants a Wife across the world.

Chris O’Dell says: “FremantleMedia has some of the world’s best-known entertainment brands in its catalogue and a fantastic set of producers in the all the major markets who deliver these formidable shows time and again. I’m really excited to take on this new challenge, work with the team to continue to deliver our global hits and introduce international audiences to some of our exciting new formats.”

Rob Clark added: “Chris is one of the most experienced producers I know. He has worked with some of the biggest companies and most well-loved names in the entertainment industry, and has a wealth of experience producing FremantleMedia’s hit shows all around the world. I think he’ll be a fantastic Head of Global Entertainment Production and look forward to work with him as we continue to roll out our shows in new markets.”

Prior to his promotion, Chris was Executive Producer at FremantleMedia for the last seven years, working with executives, producers, territory heads and local broadcasters to produce, refresh and manage FremantleMedia’s key entertainment formats including X Factor, Got Talent, Take Me Out, Hole in the Wall and Idols. An experienced media executive, Chris has held a number of production roles such as Executive Producer, Series Producer and Head of Development with companies which include TWI Entertainment, part of IMG Media, Granada Entertainment and London Weekend Television (LWT) where he had various roles including Head of Entertainment Formats, Executive Producer, Series Producer & Creative Executive. His production credits include Blind Date, Surprise Surprise, An Audience with…, Saturday Night Takeaway and Ant & Dec’s All Star Cup. Chris also created two formats – Chef V and The Better Half - which sold internationally.

Chris’ promotion follows the departure of Diana Buddingh, who left the business to return to Holland in May.