Breaking News: There has been a shake-up in the team at Universal International Studios (UIS). Two noteworthy promotions have taken place.
The studio’s CFO, Rob Howard, has assumed the position of Executive Vice President. Simultaneously, Kelsey Balance’s role has been elevated to EVP Global Scripted Series. This change comes from The Day of the Jackal studio.
In his new role, Howard will extend his jurisdiction beyond finance, focusing on overall operational strategies and production companies. This move is aimed at bolstering the studio’s international aspirations. On the other hand, Balance will helm the global scripted series team and work towards developing shows for various platforms. Howard has a five-year tenure with UIS, predominantly in the finance department. His entry into the studio was shortly followed by Balance, who previously held the title of Head of Programming at NBCUniversal’s comedy streaming venture, Seeso.
Both Howard and Balance will be reporting to Beatrice Springborn. Springborn commended their skills, stating, “Rob’s profound comprehension of the global market coupled with his operational prowess is invaluable. Likewise, Kelsey’s creative vision and global development insight is unparalleled. With Rob and Kelsey assuming expanded leadership roles, we are well equipped to fortify our international ambitions and extend our support to our co-production partners’ objectives.”
Kelsey Balance (left) and Rob Howard. Image: Maarten de Boer / Saima Khalid / Universal Studio Group
UIS is the proud producer of several acclaimed series like Peacock-Sky’s Day of the Jackal, Netflix’s One Day, and Channel 4-Peacock’s We Are Lady Parts. According to Howard, the studio is currently responsible for over 30 series across 16 platforms.
Sky made the announcement earlier today that The Day of the Jackal has made history by becoming the biggest new series to ever premiere on the platform.
These promotions follow the departure of UIS studio boss Roma Khanna, who left after a brief six months, as reported by Deadline a few months ago.
Credit: deadline.com
