Karen Vermeulen appointed as Head of Development at Flying Bark Productions – Flying Bark Productions, a globally renowned leader in children and family entertainment, today announced the appointment of Karen Vermeulen as Head of Development and Executive Producer.
Recognised as a leading multi-national animation studio in premium episodic and feature productions, Flying Bark Productions operates as an independent producer and a trusted production partner for the major studios and global platforms. The appointment of Karen underscores the company’s continued legacy of producing and investing in universally resonant stories for all ages and particularly in the kids and family space.
With the creation of this new role, Flying Bark aims to consolidate its development into a global slate focusing on creator and IP-led projects that appeal to international partners and buyers. Karen will oversee the creative development, aligning with market trends, managing talent and partner relationships to secure financing and greenlight productions, while also providing guidance on new opportunities and management of project specific teams.
The studio is currently in production on an independent premium animated series for the ABC based on Shaun Tan’s illustrated novel Tales from Outer Suburbia, with a robust pipeline of projects in active development, including one with video game publisher, Ubisoft Entertainment SA, based on well known gaming IP.
Barbara Stephen, CEO and President of Flying Bark Productions celebrated the appointment, stating
“Karen’s wealth of industry experience and passion for creating compelling animated stories makes her the perfect choice to lead the studio’s development efforts as we continue to grow our slate of original programming. Karen will continue to work with talent across the globe to develop, partner and produce projects with our studios and lead creative teams in Los Angeles, Spain and Australia.
Karen brings over 20 years’ experience in animation and media to the role, with an extensive network of creative and business partners. Prior to joining Flying Bark, she consulted for the not-for-profit media and conservation organisation On The Edge, developing and putting into production a 75-minute theatrical animated feature. She also served as Head of Global Content and Co-Production at Cloudco Entertainment and Managing Director of their UK office, and has worked with global entertainment brands such as Gaumont, RDF / Zodiak Kids (now Banijay), Walt Disney Company, Entertainment Rights, and National Geographic Kids.
Reflecting on her appointment, Karen said:
“I’m incredibly privileged to be part of Flying Bark’s journey and to help shape its future. I’m passionate about creating original stories that resonate with audiences around the world, and Flying Bark is uniquely positioned to achieve just that. I’m excited to work with our amazing team and continue to create the nostalgia of tomorrow.”
Flying Bark Productions continues to recruit for several positions across its global studios and is currently at Kidscreen in San Diego until 12 February.
Media Release – Flying Bark Productions
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Karen Vermeulen appointed as Head of Development at Flying Bark Productions
