After Party Studios today announced the promotion of Joshua Barnett from md to Chief Executive Officer. The news comes as Channel 4 recommissions 11 new episodes of three formats from After Party Studios.
As md for seven years, Barnett has been instrumental in signing clients such as Sky, Netflix, Channel 4.0, Just Eat and o2. As CEO, Barnett will drive further expansion across branded and original content, international partnerships, and digital-first production.
The company, founded by YouTuber Callux and film director Rvbberduck (aka Ben Doyle) is behind digital property Sky Sports Scenes, now in its third series, Channel 4.0’s Find The Cheater and Sidemen Charity Match. They are also behind SkyBet and EFL’s digital content League of ‘72.
“As MD, Joshua has guided After Party Studios’ transformation from a boutique production company into a globally recognised creative force,” said Ben Doyle, co-founder of After Party Studios.
Callum McGinley, co-founder of After Party Studios adds “Josh’s respected leadership, sharp business vision, and proven ability to scale teams position him perfectly to lead as CEO, propelling us into our next chapter of growth.”
Barnett brings extensive experience in digital and branded partnerships, having joined the business from YMU, where he was Head of Partnerships. As UK Sales Director at Base79, one of YouTube’s most successful Multi-Channel Networks, he was also instrumental in its £50m sale to Rightster (now Brave Bison) in 2014.
Commenting on his appointment, Barnett said: “The past seven years have been an incredible ride. I’ve learned so much and couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve built across YouTube, TV, film, socials and sport. Since KSI: Can’t Lose hit #1 in 2018, we’ve never stopped pushing boundaries. Producing the sold-out Sidemen Charity Match at Wembley – my third as Executive Producer – was a real career highlight. None of it happens without our incredible 30+ strong, award-winning team creating some of the best content online for brands, streamers and broadcasters. To be elevated to CEO at such a pivotal moment means everything and I’m truly excited for what comes next.”
The news follows last week’s recommission of Channel 4.0’s Don’t Get Catfished – their co-production with Bakers Dozen Studios (pictured) before series one had even debuted.
Savage Sundays, the weekly innovation slot hosted on Channel 4.0 YouTube and social media platforms have been so popular, it has led to Channel 4 recommissioning 11 new episodes of three formats from After Party Studios and committing to the regular Sunday drop slot.
Pippa Considine
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