New York, NY – BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of the BBC, today announced the appointment of Jemma Adkins to the role of SVP, Fiction, Sales and Distribution for BBC Worldwide, Americas. Adkins will report to Americas EVP Sales & Co-Productions, Matt Forde, and will be based in the New York office.

In her new role, Jemma will develop and execute television sales strategies for the U.S. media market, working closely with clients to determine and fulfill their programming needs. Jemma will also manage relationships with BBC in-house and indie producers to identify and negotiate co-production opportunities for our U.S. broadcast partners – ensuring the best possible product to prospective buyers – and secure programming deals for content from BBC Worldwide’s award-winning catalog.

Jemma has been with BBC Worldwide for over nine years, and previously served as Head of Content and Development for Digital Media at BBC Worldwide’s London headquarters. In this position, Jemma contributed to BBC Worldwide’s global content strategy in the digital arena, identifying strategic opportunities across multiple media platforms. Jemma worked closely with regional sales teams, talent agents, and independent producers to expand the presence of BBC Worldwide content across the digital domain, and closed significant content deals with major industry players such as YouTube and MySpace. Prior to joining the Digital Media team, Jemma was Sales Manager, UK & Ireland Television Sales for BBC Worldwide where she led the regional sales strategy, secured key sales with clients, and managed relationships within talent and production.

Matt Forde said: “Jemma brings an ideal mix of qualifications to this role. She possesses a successful, extensive track record in negotiating television and digital sales deals, she has a strong instinct for the best creative content, and an appreciation and strong understanding of the production process. She has worked closely with the BBC and a number of the UK’s best independent producers and talent agents. Her expertise will prove invaluable to our team, as well as clients and production associates.”