Fremantle UK has appointed Joanna Rwama as its new Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer as current CFO David Oldfield retires after more than two decades with the business.

In the newly created role, Joanna will work closely with the senior leadership team of both Fremantle UK and its labels to grow the business strategically and operationally. She will be responsible for the financial leadership of the business as well as setting and implementing operational and financial strategy and developing objectives for future success.

Joanna joins from BBC Studios where she has worked for 11 years, most recently as CFO of BBC Studios Productions and previously the finance lead for Factual Entertainment and Events and Entertainment and Music. Prior to this, Joanna worked as part of the deal team that secured investments in several BBC Studios production labels including Clerkenwell Films, Expectation, Sid Gentle Films and House Productions.

The new appointment comes as former Head of FP & A, Michelle Christophorou is promoted to Finance Director, reporting into Joanna, and overseeing Fremantle UK’s finance function.

Amelia Brown, CEO of Fremantle UK says, “We are so delighted Jo will be joining the senior team here at Fremantle – with her extensive experience both in the UK and internationally as well as a desire to find new opportunities in this ever-changing industry, she will play a pivotal role in continuing to drive Fremantle UK’s growth and success into the future. Also, congratulations to Michelle on her well-deserved promotion. Above all else I would like to thank David for his dedication to Fremantle over the years. He has been at the centre of Fremantle’s success, and we have been very lucky to have had him as part of the company. He will be missed hugely as there are not many CFOs like him.”

Joanna Rwama adds: “I’ve long admired the work of Fremantle UK and I’m excited to join the team and start contributing to its continued success.”

Michelle Christophorou says: “Fremantle UK is a great place to work. It’s a privilege to be promoted into this new role and an honour to begin to lead the talented finance team. I’m excited by the opportunity and look forward to Jo joining as we steer our financial strategy towards continuous growth.”