Tesha Crawford, an international Netflix exec who worked on people like The Witcher, Snabba Cash and young Wallander, has joined Universal International Studios (UIS) to help with its global scripted push.
Crawford has assumed the role of London-based SVP of the Global Scripted Series and will focus on growing the studio’s script roster in the UK and Europe.
She reports to UIS President Beatrice Springborn and works closely with LA-based Global Scripted Series SVP Kelsey Balance. She will source and package new projects, support talent and lead the UK-based creative team.
Crawford has spent the last six years working on international series for Netflix during a period of growth for the streamer outside the US. She has most recently worked in global franchises in London such as The Witcher and Millarworld Previously, she managed and oversaw the first dedicated Nordics series team quicksand, Ragnarok, Snabba Cash and Young Wallander. The former manager of Superb Entertainment first joined Netflix’s Latin American Originals team.
Springborn described Crawford as a “force” and praised her “extraordinary taste and eye for identifying great global talent”.
“We are thrilled that she is part of the UIS family and look forward to her and Kelsey forging a powerful momentum to bring even more exciting voices and stories to global audiences,” she added.
Crawford said, “Beatrice has such a strong vision for the creative team that aligns very well with what I’ve always believed in creating shows. This is a unique moment in the industry, which is developing more and more every day around the world. As the studio continues to break new ground with its programming and partnerships with global storytellers, I look forward to building on its legacy as a home for creators to create their best and most innovative work without boundaries.”
Owning a number of international labels, UIS is expanding globally, producing among others Soo Hugh’s forthcoming label the plotters, Channel 4 comedy We are lady parts and the forthcoming Sky/Peacock adaptation The Day of the Jackal.