By Andy Fry

Darren Nielson has been promoted to EVP, international networks at Starz, taking over from Superna Kalle. Reporting directly to Starz president and CEO Jeffrey Hirsch, Nielson will oversee all aspect of international streaming service LIonsgate+ including P&L responsibility, programming, distribution, marketing and publicity.

Since joining the company in 2018, Nielson has been leading international distribution and business development for Starz-branded digital and linear services, working closely with Kalle to develop expansion strategies.

Hirsch said: “Darren has been instrumental in building our international business working with Superna since joining in 2018. He has a deep knowledge of the global streaming landscape and is a respected strategic executive. We look forward to maximising growth and profitability of our international markets under his leadership. Superna did a great job in rapidly scaling an international service from the ground up, forming many new distribution partnerships and building a robust slate of international original series.”

Nielson, who was previously director of content acquisition at Netflix, takes over at a pivotal moment for Starz. Although the Lionsgate-branded streaming service is currently in the UK, Latin America, Canada and Australia, it is in the process of being shut down in markets including Germany, Italy, Benelux, Japan, France, Spain and the Nordics. Plans are also afoot to separate the Lionsgate and Starz business units.

Kalle who will stay on to help the transition, said: “Darren has been my right hand in launching and building the international business and has great relationships with key partners. He will do a wonderful job in leading the next phase of Starz international.”https://www.digitaltveurope.com