Fred Rogers Productions Promotes Matthew Shiels to VP, Business and Legal Affairs

New responsibilities include overseeing licensing for the company’s series and brands.

June 16, 2021

Fred Rogers Productions, the nonprofit children’s entertainment producer behind the PBS KIDS series “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” “Odd Squad” and “Peg + Cat,” along with the just-launched “Donkey Hodie” and upcoming “Alma’s Way,” has promoted Matthew Shiels from director to vice president, business and legal affairs.

“Matt is a valued member of our senior executive team,” says Christopher Arnold, chief operating officer, Fred Rogers Productions. “He has formed and strengthened relationships with our partners while shaping and implementing our strategic vision for international distribution, licensing and merchandising. Most importantly, Matt models our core values of thoughtfulness, respect and dedication to his craft.”

Shiels joined Fred Rogers Productions in 2017. He advises the company on general corporate matters and is responsible for agreements covering program development, production and distribution, merchandise licensing, intellectual property, copyright and trademarks and the administration

of an extensive music library.

Previously, Shiels handled a broad range of legal services, such as patent and trademark counseling and litigation services, for the Pittsburgh-based law firm Reed Smith. Before that, he was a partner at Kirkland & Ellis in Chicago.

In addition to his various legal responsibilities, Shiels will now oversee licensing for the company and its brands. He reports directly to chief operating officer Christopher Arnold.

“I feel privileged to work with such a talented and dedicated team that is committed to advancing our mission of providing quality, meaningful content for children and their families around the world,” says Shiels.