Studiocanal, a Paris-based production-distribution house, is making a bold move by launching an office in New York City. This strategic decision comes amidst the company’s efforts to establish a stronger foothold in the American market. Anne Chérel has been promoted to the position of Chief Commercial Officer and will be responsible for overseeing the operations of the new base in New York City.
The primary focus of the newly established office in New York City will be to collaborate with American distribution partners. Studiocanal already has a presence in Los Angeles and holds a stake in The Picture Company, a U.S.-based production company. By expanding to New York City, Studiocanal aims to strengthen its relationships with American partners and enhance its distribution capabilities in the region.
Strategic Partnerships
Studiocanal’s decision to establish an office in New York City is part of a larger strategy to combine distribution and global sales for all its film projects. The company plans to work closely with third-party distributors to maximize the reach and impact of its films in the American market. Currently, Studiocanal is involved in several high-profile projects with American partners, including the release of the third Paddington movie in partnership with Sony Pictures, Back to Black with Focus Features, We Live in Time and Huntington with A24, and Wicked Little Letters with Sony Pictures Classics. Moreover, the company is in “advanced discussions” with an American partner for the release of Paris Has Fallen.
Anne Chérel’s promotion to Chief Commercial Officer is part of a series of executive-level changes at Studiocanal. Dominique Jubin has been named Head of French Drama at Ciné+ OCS, Isabelle Pain has joined as Head of Global Acquisitions & Analytics, and Sara Reese Geffroy has been appointed as SVP of Studiocanal Stories. Chérel, who has been with the company since 2009, will report to Anna Marsh, the Deputy CEO of Canal+ Group and the CEO of Studiocanal. In addition to overseeing the new office in New York City, Chérel will continue to manage global distribution for Studiocanal.
Since 2020, Chérel has been instrumental in overseeing the international distribution of Studiocanal’s films, including critically acclaimed projects like Autumn and the Black Jaguar, Back to Black, and Beating Hearts. Her extensive knowledge of the global market and exceptional managerial skills have been instrumental in building a successful sales team at Studiocanal. Marsh commended Chérel for her contributions, stating that she has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and success in the international market.