Trustbridge Global Media hires Boat Rocker exec to head kids content push

Bob Higgins

Veteran kids’ exec Bob Higgins has exited Boat Rocker Media to head up New York-based Trustbridge Global Media (TGM)’s push into kids & family entertainment.

The new company will source, develop and produce kids & family programming based primarily on the library of titles inside TGM’s publishing houses, such as Alex Rider, Where’s Waldo and Judy Moody.

Higgins, who previously served as Boat Rocker Media’s EVP of kids & family, will become president of the new business, running day-to-day operations, and reporting to TGM MD John String.

TGM is a global children’s content company formed in 2016 by equity firm Trustbridge Partners. Its portfolio of publishing houses includes Candlewick Press, Holiday House, Peachtree Publishing, Pixel + Ink and Walker Books.

Higgins joined Boat Rocker in 2018, working on shows including A Tale Dark & Grimm for Netflix, Amber Brown for Apple TV+ and Dino Ranch for Canada’s CBC and Disney Jr.

Prior to that, he served as EVP of FremantleMedia Kids & Family for eight years, with credits including Danger Mouse and My Babysitter Is A Vampire.

He was also previously the CCO at WildBrain, SVP of progamming and development at Cartoon Network and director of development at Nelvana.

“We are aggressively expanding our kids and family content business with both eyes on building the platform of choice for creators of exciting and high-quality content,” said String.

“Bob’s track record and expertise, particularly his success working with talented storytellers to bring fresh perspectives to original series and beloved titles, make him an exceptional hire to lead our entertainment group.”