The Euro50 Q&A: Jesús Perezagua, Fox International Channels

Fox International Channels Europe & Africa experienced a very busy 2011 under the leadership of president Jesús Perezagua, launching multiple new channels in multiple territories.

Age 47

Education Bachelor of Economics and Business Administration and Finance; Master of Business Administration

Previous positions Senior vice-president and general manager, Fox International Channels Spain and Portugal; managing director Iberian channels and online for Fox Kids Entertainment Iberia; marketing director, Bandai, Iberia and Latin America.

Last year’s highlights Experiencing the dynamic growth of our company in the number of brands being distributed and territories we serve. Among more than 15 feeds launched this year, we have seen the launches of Fox Crime in Scandinavia as the first Fox International fiction-entertainment channel on the Nordic market, and the amibitous 24Kitchen as an entertaining life-style TV channel and franchise meeting with immediate success and impressive ratings in the Dutch market. Our National Geographic Channels continue to offer strong value to viewers with broader availability of HD and on-demand content.

Most significant industry development The rapid evolution of new technologies is so vibrant that there is no single wider industry development, but instead a new dimension of broadcasting and distribution bringing us more opportunities to connect with our audience.

Goals for next year To continue expanding our portfolio brands, extending our organisation through a stronger international presence, and ultimately serving more markets and adding value for our clients and viewers.

Industry challenges and opportunities The audiovisual industry today is a constantly changing business model ‘propelled by the future’, and presents challenging legal, logistical, editorial, and marketing considerations. I am most intrigued by the benefits new technologies will most certainly bring to content production.

Alternative career choice I think I have been lucky to start my career in the entertainment business, initially with toy and character merchandising. If I were to start again, I would have chosen the same path because it has taught me what I know today.

TV character most identified with No one specifically, but if I could choose a single scenario to be in, it would be a night at Moe’s Bar, spending time with Homer Simpson and friends.

Most admired personality I would most admire a European leader who has the determination and will to make Europe move ahead in these difficult and confusing times. It’s difficult to say who is currently meeting that challenge.

Life outside work I spend most of my leisure time with my daughters and wife, exploring and enjoying life in Amsterdam where I now live.