Rutherford builds Boat Rocker rights team

The newly-established Boat Rocker Rights has appointed a VP, global sales and licensing.

Gia DeLaney will join Boat Rocker Media’s sales arm, which former Tricon Films & Television distribution chief Jon Rutherford heads as president.

DeLaney was most recently VP, programme sales at American Greetings Entertainment (fka American Greetings Properties), where she sold programming for brands such as The Care Bears and Strawberry Shortcake.

Her appointment comes in the same week Canadian TV group Temple Street Productions (Orphan Black) rebranded as Boat Rocker, an expanded group working across production, distribution, brand management, digital and animation.

At Boat Rocker Rights, DeLaney will lead kids and family content sales, look at licensing opportunities and aid third-party catalogue acquisitions. Based in New York, she will report to Rutherford.

“Gia is an industry veteran with an excellent reputation and long standing relationships with leading broadcasters and platforms around the globe,” said Rutherford.

“As the company continues to expand its footprint, Gia will be instrumental in introducing our content to international audiences. We are thrilled to have her join the Boat Rocker team.”

DeLaney most recently worked for MIPCOM organiser Reed MIDEM, as director of sales.

She has also worked for American Greetings, in international programme sales for now-defunct distributor 4Kids Entertainment, acquisition manager for Showtime Networks and a producer on ABC’s Good Morning America.