In-house division launches with first licensing partner, Funko.

The Ambi Group, operated by Andrea Iervolino and Monika Bacardi, has developed a new, in-house brand partnership division.

The new division will be responsible for product placement (branded integrations), promotions, licensing and retail engagement as well as developing strategic alliances and sponsorship marketing for TV, film, home entertainment, web and mobile.

Furthermore, Ambi has already secured its first licensing partnership with Funko, which will create Pop! Vinyl figures and Pocket Pop! key chains featuring the cult classic film Donnie Darko.

The Donnie Darko-branded collectibles will be available in 2017.

Additional titles available through Ambi’s film and TV library include Memento, Begin Again, Cruel Intentions, End of Watch, Ides of March and Hit & Run, among many others.

Additionally, marketing executive Keith Snelgrove will head the new division.

Prior to joining the company, Snelgrove served as senior vice president, global business strategy at EON Productions, a subsidiary of Danjaq. During his tenure, he was instrumental in enabling the 007 brand to ignite globally.

He has also held senior marketing positions with MGM Studio, Frankel and Co., Burger King and Campbell-Mithun Advertising.

“We view branded integrations and partnerships based on our IP as a key avenue for expansion as we move ever closer to realizing our goal of creating a full-fledged global studio on par with the industry leaders,” says Iervolino. “We are very fortunate to have Keith on board to lead this new division. There are few in the industry who can match his knowledge and successful track record as a marketing pioneer and innovator across all entertainment platforms. His expertise and guidance will be invaluable in growing the new division.”