SPI International has appointed Jeroen Bergman as MD of Film1 operations in the Netherlands.
The move follows the recent deal between Sony Pictures Television (SPT) Networks and SPI International confirming that as of August 1, 2019 SPI will fully own the Film1 brand and operate four pay movie services brands under the Film1umbrella: Film1 Premiere, Film1 Drama, Film1 Action and Film1 Family.
Bergman makes the transition to Film1 after 20 years of employment as MD of programming at Liberty Global. While at Liberty Global, he worked on the acquisition of the Dutch Canal+ assets by Liberty Global and managed them for six years during which the service re-launched as Film1 and Sport1.
Commenting on the appointment, Berk Uziyel, CEO of SPI International. said: “We are delighted to have Jeroen Bergman on board as MD of Film1 movie services. Jeroen’s extensive media and entertainment industry expertise will play a key role in strengthening Film1’s growth as the best premium movie service in the Netherlands. We are confident that Film1 will create a great success story in the Netherlands”.
Under the leadership of Bergman as MD of Film1, SPI International will continue to offer both linear channels as well as its digital services in the Netherlands.
Bergman said: “I am very excited to work with SPI International, a company I have come to know well for their strong presence in Europe. Their track record, superior programming and established content relationships will be of formidable help in driving the growth of Film1 in the Netherlands”.