Natural world streamer WaterBear Network names management team

WaterBear Network, a new free interactive video-on-demand platform dedicated to the natural world, is to launch in the autumn.

Launching as a digital platform and mobile app, WaterBear will showcase documentaries, original content and will also feature live streaming content.

WaterBear Network says that it is intended to facilitate awareness and action.

The streamer’s backers said that with original and curated content inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), WaterBear members will be able to stream hours of video at any time, and on any device free of charge.

WaterBear’s CEO is Ellen Windemuth, previously the owner and CEO of production outfit Off the Fence.

Another ex-Off the Fence executive, Victor Eckard, is seving as managing director, responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and general management of WaterBear.  Previously he was the director of strategy and business development for Off The Fence, formed part of the executive management team as head of content that launched streaming service ShowMax for Naspers, and also served as director at MultiChoice-owned M-Net.

Ex-General Manager of The European Nature Trust, Sam Sutaria has joined WaterBear as head of strategy.

A third Off The Fence executive, Pierre Le Gaudu, has been apponted as head of technical operations.

The streamer’s management line-up also includes, Louis Botha, head of finance, Andrea Walji, head of content and production, Lisa Rose, head of impact, Poppy Mason-Watts, head of marketing and publicity, Justin Steel, head of planning and distribution, and Bracken Hollings, head of partnership content.

Windemuth said: “I am excited to have such a talented team ready to go the distance together – each brings a wealth of experience, innovation and a passion for WaterBear’s mission of impact storytelling. As we prepare for launch, we are creating an inspirational showcase of purpose-focused content paired with unique technology for our global audience to interact with the causes they care about.”