Granada Media is to create a “dynamic new production group” following its acquisition of United Broadcasting and Entertainment businesses. A new management structure will oversee the combined output of LWT Productions and United Productions, headed by John Willis, currently chief executive of United Productions, as managing director.
Marcus Plantin, currently LWT’s director of programmes, is to become director of programmes for both LWT and United Productions, while John Cresswell will join as director of operations for Granada Media, charged with the initial brief of continuing the integration of the two companies. As managing director, Willis will report to Andrea Wonfor, executive chair of Granada Media, while Cresswell will report to Granada Media’s managing director of operations, Jules Burns.
Steven Morris, chief executive of Granada Media, said, “I am delighted that John Willis has decided to come on board. Both he and Marcus have very strong creative flair and command enormous respect within the industry.” He went on to say that the new production group would collaborate closely with production heads at Anglia and Meridian as part of a commitment to grow network production in the regions.
However, the merger has led to the exit of Malcolm Wall, who is currently chief executive of United Broadcasting and Entertainment, a post he has held for two years. Following “thoughtful discussions”, he is said to be looking to “explore broader career options outside of Granada Media.” and will leave his current position shortly.
Since the United acquisition, shares in Granada Media have had mixed fortunes. After reaching a high of £6.76 at the end of August, the value of shares in the group has fallen, partly due to predictions of a drop in advertising revenue which emerged later in the month. Shares ended yesterday down 10p at £4.04.
