In the wake of BBC Studios acquiring it fully, BritBoxthe streaming service has made changes in its leadership. Robert Schildhouse, who currently serves as the general manager for North America and group editorial for BritBox International, has been appointed as the president of BritBox North America and general manager of BritBox International.
This change in leadership will take effect on April 1, with Schildhouse being based in New York. Kerry Ball will continue in her role as the chief commercial and strategy officer, based in London. Both will report to Rebecca Glashow, the CEO of BBC Global Media and Streaming.
Schildhouse has been with the company since 2022. In his most recent role, he has played a significant role in growing the streaming service’s business in the United States and Canada, and has also led its global content and editorial organization. In his new role, he will oversee product/technology, marketing, and editorial functions.
In a press release, Glashow stated, “Robert’s dedication, creativity, and enthusiasm for the business make him the ideal leader to steer BritBox's continued success, and I am looking forward to collaborating with him. With Robert’s deep understanding of the streaming landscape, along with our exceptional leadership team and staff, BritBox is set for an exciting phase of growth within the BBC portfolio.”
“I am thrilled to take on this expanded role at such a crucial moment for BritBox International. We have experienced remarkable growth over the past year and are well-positioned to solidify our position as the top destination for delivering high-quality British content to our loyal and expanding subscriber base,” said Schildhouse in a statement to the press. “Great stories can originate from anywhere, and we remain dedicated to curating premium content from the diverse creative community across the UK, including ITV, independent producers, and from within BBC Studios.”
Launched in 2017, BritBox International is known for offering the best of British entertainment to global audiences. The streaming service features both original content and classics in its library, such as “Archie,” “Death in Paradise,” “Father Brown,” “Line of Duty,” “Sherwood,” and “Shetland.” According to the company, there has been a 300% increase in subscribers over the past four years, and it is on track to set a record this year.
Earlier this month, BBC Studios acquired ITV’s stake in BritBox International, becoming the sole owner of the streaming service. The deal was valued at £255 million, or $322 million.