Ellender to Leave Fremantle

David Ellender is stepping down as chief executive officer of FremantleMedia International to “pursue new challenges.”

Ellender joined the company 12 years ago and has been CEO of the International division for the last six, where he oversaw the company’s global distribution and Kids & Family businesses.

Prior to leading the International division, Ellender was managing director of FremantleMedia International Distribution.

The news was announced to staff Thursday morning in an e-mail in which Chief Executive Officer Cecile Frot-Coutaz thanked Ellender for his “vision, leadership and the huge contribution he has made to the company.”