Fremantle UK appoints Joanna Rwama as COO & CFO

She replaces current CFO David Oldfield who retires after more than two decades with the business.

Rwama joins from BBC Studios where she has worked for 11 years, most recently as CFO of BBC Studios Productions and previously the finance lead for Factual Entertainment and Events and Entertainment and Music. Before this, Rwama worked as part of the deal team that secured investments in several BBC Studios production labels including Clerkenwell Films, Expectation, Sid Gentle Films and House Productions.

In the newly created role, Rwama will work with the senior leadership team of both Fremantle UK and its labels to grow the business strategically and operationally.

The new appointment comes as former Head of Financial Planning & Analysis, Michelle Christophorou is promoted to Finance Director, reporting into Rwama, and overseeing Fremantle UK’s finance function.

Fremantle UK is the British production arm of global entertainment group, Fremantle, with labels including Thames, Talkback, Naked, Euston Films, Label 1, 72 Films and Wildstar Films.

Amelia Brown, CEO of Fremantle UK said: “We are so delighted Jo will be joining the senior team here at Fremantle – with her extensive experience both in the UK and internationally as well as a desire to find new opportunities in this ever-changing industry, she will play a pivotal role in continuing to drive Fremantle UK’s growth and success into the future. Also, congratulations to Michelle on her well-deserved promotion. Above all else I would like to thank David for his dedication to Fremantle over the years. He has been at the centre of Fremantle’s success, and we have been very lucky to have had him as part of the company. He will be missed hugely as there are not many CFOs like him.”