Canuck prodco hires Dakota exec for sales

Canadian producer Media Ranch has hired a senior VP, business development and distribution, TBI has learned.

Christos Sourligas has been drafted in from Dakota Pictures, where he was VP, distribution.

He is a 20-year industry veteran, and has previously worked for FarMore Distribution and Just For Laughs, both in VP, distribution posts. He has written and directed documentaries such as Happy Slapping and Elephant Shoes.

Sourligas will join Street Jungle producer Media Ranch at MIPCOM, where the company will be debuting new series such as a scripted comedy featuring flamboyant 1980s glam-rock band Steel Panther.

LA-based GRB Entertainment has sales rights to the series, which follows the sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle of the band.

“We’re delighted to welcome Christos to Media Ranch. His valuable experience will help us further realise our international ambitions in the broadcast industry,” said Media Ranch president Sophie Ferron.

“Our current development slate and finished programmes are unique, exciting and challenging,” said Sourligas. “I love a great challenge – that’s why I jumped at the opportunity to work for Media Ranch.”

Ferron created Media Ranch in 2008, and has gone on to produce series such as True Sex Confessions, Dining with the Enemy and Plain Jane.