Novel looks to broaden its podcast business with latest hire

UK-based studio, Novel has appointed Neil Krishnan as its new Head of TV and Film.

Krishnan joins from his role as Director of Creative Acquisitions for Universal Studio Group, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies.

The appointment comes as Novel, the largest independent podcast production company in Europe, seeks to broaden its business, expanding audio projects into TV and film adaptations.

At Universal, Krishnan was a key player in finding and closing several competitive projects across books, graphic novels and podcasts.

Previously, Krishnan worked as a creative executive at Erik Feig’s PICTURESTART, an independent multimedia studio that creates, develops, produces, and finances original stories for all mediums.

He began his career in business strategy with stints at Bain & Company, Microsoft, and Netflix before moving to the creative side of Hollywood.

Neil Krishnan says: “I was immediately blown away by Novel’s bold approach to story, incredible access to original journalism, and unyielding ambition. I’m thrilled to utilize both my creative and business backgrounds as I help grow the already burgeoning Novel brand across the podcast, film and TV landscapes.”

Sean Glynn, CEO of Novel, says: “Novel is on a rapid expansion journey. The exploitation of our IP beyond podcasting is a key part of our future as we increasingly look to self-fund, in addition to working with our partners. Neil is going to be integral to this and we couldn’t be happier.”

Matt O’Mara, Managing Director, adds: “From the moment we met Neil we were taken aback by both his excitement about Novel and his incredible dual creative/commercial outlook, which is rare. It’s fantastic that Neil has joined the business and will bring with him his vast experience and a huge number of industry connections.”