The ABC has appointed Jessica Ellis as the Head, ABC Commercial, where she has been overseeing the role from August 2021.

Since joining ABC in February 2007, Jess has provided insight and experience to the leadership of ABC Commercial. In her most recent position as Head, Content Sales & Distribution, Jess has been responsible for delivering Commercial’s success across Global TV distribution, News Syndication and Home Entertainment.

Under her leadership, ABC Commercial has signed major output deals with international distribution partners leading to the exponential growth of the business. Jess has also secured ongoing partnerships with leading digital players including Netflix, Stan, iTunes and Spotify and has signed landmark syndication deals that have expanded ABC News content reach to new audiences.

Jess works closely with the Australian TV production industry to secure global distribution rights to key ABC franchises ensuring Australian stories and voices can be shared with the world. In addition to her extensive experience as a Senior Executive at the ABC, Jess has also worked in Drama Investment for Screen Australia and Digital Media Sales for BBC Worldwide.

ABC’s Chief Financial Officer, Melanie Kleyn, welcomed the appointment: “ABC Commercial continues to face the challenges being seen elsewhere in content distribution, media and retail sectors. Jess brings the depth of experience and the range of skills necessary to lead ABC Commercial through the challenges, whilst continuing to align Commercial activities against the ABC’s Five-Year plan.”

On her appointment, Ellis said, “I’m incredibly excited to be stepping up into this role and ready to take on the challenge at such a pivotal and shifting time for our industry. ABC Commercial has one of the most respected and impressive teams in the industry and I’m looking forward to building on their energy and vision.”