Wachtel named President NBCU International Studios
November 29, 2017
Jeff Wachtel, a senior NBCUniversal television executive and producer, has been named as President, NBCUniversal International Studios. The appointment was announced by Kevin MacLellan, Chairman, Global Distribution & International, to whom he will report, effective from January.
Located in the interim from Los Angeles before moving to London in summer 2018, Wachtel’s new role will switch his focus to international and global productions. He will manage all aspects of television development, production, formats, and strategic content partnerships for NBCUniversal International Studios.
Since 2013, based in Los Angeles, Wachtel currently serves as Chief Content Officer, NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment, reporting to Bonnie Hammer (Chairman, NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment and Cable Studios), responsible for the development and production of content for the company’s diverse cable portfolio, including Bravo, E!, Oxygen, SYFY and USA. He also serves as President of two studios: Universal Cable Productions (focused on original scripted programming) and Wilshire Studios (focused on non-scripted).
Kevin MacLellan commented: “The ability to produce for a local and a global audience is key to the future success of any major production company. Jeff is one of the few creative executives in the business who has proven time and again that he can deliver shows that work on both planes. Working with him closely over the years, my team and I have always found him to be incredibly collaborative and sensitive to what works best for our international audiences. We couldn’t be more thrilled that he is joining us to help grow our production businesses around the world.”
Wachtel added: “I’m going from one dream job to another. Nothing can top my experience helping to grow USA and then UCP into hugely successful enterprises. And I have been lucky to benefit from Bonnie’s leadership and my wonderful relationship with the incredible NBCU teams. The only thing that could be more exciting is the adventure of moving to London and working with our great international folks to help take that business to the next level.”
“Jeff has a unique blend of great creative instincts and business savvy,” said Bonnie Hammer. “It’s the reason he has one of the most impressive track records in the business and I know he’ll continue to work his magic at our International Studios.