By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
BBC Studios has appointed Dion Vlachos as the company’s new senior vice president of consumer products for North America.
In his new role at the company, Vlachos will secure new licensing opportunities and expansions for BBC Studios’ portfolio of entertainment brands across Canada and the US.
“I’m ecstatic to welcome Dion to the team,” said BBC Studios Brands & Licensing SVP, Suzy Raia. “Having had the pleasure of working with Dion previously, I know his stellar reputation in market is built off the back of deep knowledge and expertise, phenomenal leadership skills and work ethic that will make him a great fit for the organization,” added Raia. “I’m really looking forward to his partnership as I know how much value he brings to global franchises and the teams that build them.”
An experienced executive across the media and licensing industry, Dion previously served at Paramount Global as the company’s EVP of consumer products and experiences.
While at Paramount, Vlachos worked to build multi-category merchandise programs for the full portfolio of Nickelodeon and Paramount franchises.
This portfolio includes global entertainment IP such as Paw Patrol, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, SpongeBob SquarePants and Yellowstone.
Prior to joining Paramount, Dion worked at the Walt Disney Company for 22 years to develop brand strategies for major film franchises like The Lion King, Toy Story, Cars, Percy Jackson & the Olympians, Finding Nemo and more.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the iconic BBC Studios,” said Vlachos. “This team, under Suzy Raia’s exceptional leadership, is truly world-class and has built an outstanding reputation across the industry. I’m excited to help drive the next chapter of growth and innovation.”
Dion joins at a key moment for BBC Studios Brands & Licensing division as the team gears up for a Bluey feature film.
Set for theatrical release in 2027, the Bluey film is currently being developed with the Walt Disney Company and will be launched under the Disney banner.
BBC Studios and The Walt Disney Company first announced the film in late 2024, with Disney acquiring the global theatrical rights.
The Brands & Licensing team will also focus on building on the Bluey franchise’s recent milestone of being named the most-watched series on streaming services in the US by the 2024 Nielsen ARTEY Awards.
BBC Studios is a global media company that creates, distributes and licenses content from its portfolio of entertainment brands.
The company’s IP portfolio includes Doctor Who, Top Gear, Dancing with the Stars, BBC Earth and Bluey.
For Bluey, BBC Studios serves as the co-commissioner, distributor and licensor of the animated property.
Image courtesy of BBC Studios.
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