Well respected exec takes on newly created role of head of retail at the agency.
Rocket Licensing has appointed Richard Hollis to the newly created role of head of retail.
Richard (pictured) has been a respected name in the licensing business for more than 25 years, having held roles with companies including BBC, DreamWorks Animation and Hallmark.
Among his achievements, Richard launched preschool brands such as Teletubbies and Tweenies at the BBC and handled the return of Doctor Who. At DreamWorks, he oversaw movie licensing on How To Train Your Dragon and the 2016 hit Trolls, as well as developing a TV portfolio that included Noddy and Netflix commissions such as Dinotrux.
At Rocket, Richard will further build the profile of both the agency and its brands at retail, developing and implementing a strategy to drive listings and presence to maximise sales and royalty revenue.
“I have known Rob and Charlie [Wijeratna and Donaldson, joint managing directors] for years and watched in admiration as they grew their agency and built a reputation,” Richard commented. “Rocket has a wonderfully diverse and inspiring portfolio of brands and it is a delight to be able to join the team.
“Together I am confident we can make a real impact in the market and I am looking forward to working with the many inspiring creative talents that Rocket represents.”
Rob Wijeratna added: “This is a new post designed to drive a key component of our strategy and it’s essential to choose a candidate with vast experience, strong communications skills and in-depth knowledge of the licensing industry.
“Richard offers all these qualities – and more. We are delighted to welcome him on board at the start of what we are sure will be a very exciting year for Rocket Licensing.”
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