IMG Taps Gers To Head Entertainment Unit

Looking to expand its U.S. entertainment production operations, well-known sports marketing firm IMG has hired former Fremantle Media executive Olivier Gers to serve as co-head of a new unit: IMG Entertainment. Gers will hold the title of senior vice president and global head of new media.

Gers will lead IMG Entertainment along with London-based Alastair Waddington. Gers, whose Fremantle tenure included work on its signature "American Idol" franchise, will be based in New York.

In addition to searching for new TV hits, he'll look to bolster IMG's programming interests in the digital-media arena, including the Web and wireless spaces, to further monetize the talent IMG represents and the events it operates.

"Olivier's appointment represents another strategic executive appointment at IMG as we transform the company and create a balance between our representation of world-renowned global brands and the creation and ownership of entertainment properties," said Ted Forstmann, Chairman-CEO.

advertisement

advertisement

According to Gers, IMG is "perfectly positioned to work with talent, producers, distribution platforms and advertising partners around the world to create a new breed of entertainment experiences available on multiple screens."

Gers was general manager of FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, where he led efforts to drive revenues for the "Idol" franchise, popular in a slew of countries, via expansion into new business areas.

Previously, Gers founded Odaddy.com, an online community targeting fathers, and consulting firm The Fulcrum Group.

Next story loading loading..