As it expands its slate, FilmNation TV UK has hired a senior BBC Studios drama executive. Martin Rakusen has joined the team of Creative Director Kirstie Macdonald as COO.
In his new job, Rakusen will oversee all business, operational, and financial activities for the production, which is a joint venture between FilmNation Entertainment and Viaplay Group.
He’ll collaborate closely with Macdonald on fundraising, strategy, and transaction structures, as well as financial planning. He is also in charge of worldwide television distribution strategy, deal-making, and connections, as well as business talks with intellectual property owners, agencies, commissioners, financiers, co-producers, and distributors.
He had a similar position at BBC Studios, where he oversaw strategic and commercial initiatives in drama and comedy.
Rakusen began his career with the BBC before joining RDF as Director of Drama, Children’s, and Branded Content Commercial Development. He subsequently worked for Shine International in Los Angeles, eventually becoming COO when the business relocated back to London.
Later, he moved on to BBC Worldwide (now BBC Studios), where he intended to expand narrative activities, including subsidiary production firms. He’d worked his way up to the position of Commercial Director, Scripted for BBC Studios Productions.
