Discovery Networks appoints local production exec

Discovery Networks has appointed Thierry Bled to a newly-created role of Executive Producer, Australia and New Zealand.

He will oversee the development of productions across Discovery Channel (ANZ), Animal Planet (ANZ) TLC (ANZ), Discovery Kids (AU), Discovery Turbo (ANZ), Discovery Science (AU), Living Channel (NZ) and Food TV (NZ) and manage local production initiative Discovery Ignite.

Originally from the United States, Bled was most recently a development producer at WTFN. Prior to this he was ABC Children’s Deputy Commissioning & Development Editor, where he commissioned over 200 hours of content.

Thierry has also served as a director and producer on Queer Eye For The Straight Guy, Top Chef and Project Runway. He was also Head of Development at Joined Up Films and has experience developing, directing and producing for Viacom and NBC Universal.

“Discovery is a global company that believes strongly in local expertise. Here in ANZ we are committed to providing Australian and New Zealand Subscription TV audiences more locally created programming than ever before and are thrilled to welcome Thierry to the team to help drive that strategy” said Mandy Pattinson Executive Vice President & General Manager, Australia, New Zealand & Pacific Islands, Discovery Networks Asia Pacific. “Having worked in the factual and lifestyle landscapes in both Australia and the US, Thierry is a dynamic and innovative producer and director who will bring invaluable experience to Discovery.”

He began yesterday reporting to Jonathan Rudd, Vice President, Programming & Production.

Local productions still to come on Discovery this year include Aussie Gold Hunters, Abalone Wars Season S5, Say Yes To The Dress: Australia, Shark Week, Snake Boss Season S2 and more.