PBS Distribution names acquisitions and sales chief

PBS Distribution has promoted managing director Germaine Sweet to head of content acquisitions and sales, replacing the outgoing Joe Barrett.

Sweet takes on her expanded role immediately and will now oversee all international content sales and co-production financing for the company as well as her existing remit overseeing drama investment.

She will also take over leadership of the international sales team from vice president of global sales Barrett, who retires at the end of March.

Barrett has led PBS Distribution sales strategy for five years, expanding the company’s international footprint and strengthening relationships with broadcast and streamers.

“Our partners and clients are in very good hands with Germaine,” said Barrett. “She has a deep understanding of both our content and the international marketplace, and I’m confident she will continue to build on the strong foundations our team has created.”

Sweet added: “PBS Distribution has a world-class catalog and strong global partnerships, and I look forward to strengthening our international reach while supporting our producers and partners worldwide.

Sweet has been with PBS for almost a decade and was previously senior vice president of global content sales and operations at National Geographic Channels.

PBS Distribution president Andrea Downing said: “We’re lucky to have someone with Germaine’s extensive knowledge of the international marketplace lead our sales team into the future.

“Her experience, leadership style, and understanding of our mission make her the ideal person to step into this expanded role.”

PBS Distribution’s slate for London TV Screenings later this month includes Rain Bombs, Athens: Birth of Democracy, Mystery of the First Temple and The Real Truth.