Exec pair replacing Beers at FremantleMedia

Craig Cegielski and Jennifer Mullin have been named co-CEOs of FremantleMedia North America to replace current incumbent Thom Beers (pictured left).

Cegielski (right) is currently executive VP, scripted programming and Mullin (below, left) EVP of current programming.

They will step up when Beers exits upon the end of his contract this summer, both reporting to FremantleMedia CEO Cecile Frot-Coutaz. They also get seats on the RTL-owned company’s operating board from June this year.

Beers is exiting after three years in the post, having taken the post to replace Frot-Coutaz after she replaced Tony Cohen as company chief exec.

Beers had taken the job after creating Original Productions, which FremantleMedia acquired a 75% stake for US$50 million in 2009. He made his reputation producing big budget factual series such as Deadliest Catch, Ax Men and Storage Wars.

“It’s been an unbelievable ride and I’ve been fortunate to build an incredibly talented team,” he said. “We’ve launched shows in syndication and primetime; premiered our first scripted drama; created Buzzr, the company’s first linear channel; and leaped into the digital content business with Tiny Riot!.”

He called Cegielski and Mullin “powerhouses”. Cegielski’s credits include A&E’s remake of The Returned, while former Telepictures and Universal exec Mullin has overseen formats such as The Price Is Right and Family Feud, having led FMNA’s unscripted programming for more than ten years.

Cegielski joined FMNA in June 2013 from Open Circle Entertainment, which he founded with Susan Gross. He was also president of GK-tv and worked at Lionsgate International Television at EVP, programming and sales.

“Thom has made great strides for the US business,” said Frot-Coutaz. “His extensive expertise, creativity, enthusiasm and innovative approach have opened new roads for the company, while building on its foundation.

“Jennifer and Craig are perfect successors to Thom. They are passionate, driven experts who will lead the business through the next exciting phase and continue to grow the accomplishments Thom made during his tenure.  I can’t thank Thom enough for all that he has done for the company and I’m delighted to welcome Jennifer and Craig as they transition to lead the business.”