Hit Entertainment has appointed Kate Schlomann as vice president of global brand management.

In her new role, Schlomann will guide the global brand and marketing strategies for existing and new properties in the Hit Brands portfolio including Thomas & Friends, Mike the Knight, Fireman Sam and Bob the Builder. 

“At Hit, we remain focused on telling great stories and creating endearing characters that children want to engage with. This relies on having the best talent and the best partners in place to make it happen,” says Edward Catchpole, senior vice president, Hit Brands, to whom Schlomann will report. “Kate has a solid track record in the children’s entertainment sector and we are delighted to be welcoming her to the business. She will play a pivotal role in ensuring our brands are well positioned for growth through 2014 and beyond.”

Schlomann brings more than 15 years of experience to Hit, most recently serving as executive vice president of brand management and marketing at FremantleMedia Enterprises.

Previously, she was vice president of international brand management for Nickelodeon and Viacom where she managed brand and retail strategies as well as oversaw creative across numerous properties including Dora the Explorer and SpongeBob SquarePants. Before that she was marketing director at Universal Studios where she managed EMEA licensing strategy, promotional and retail merchandising activity.

“Hit excels at creating and building globally successful brands that capture the hearts and imaginations of preschoolers and their families,” says Schlomann. “With such a broad portfolio of brands and some major milestones on the horizon, I’m thrilled to be joining at such exciting times.”