Germany's historic studio complex Studio Babelsberg has appointed film and TV industry veteran Jörg Bachmeier as its new CEO.
He replaces Andy Weltman who was CEO from 2022 and oversaw the integration of Studio Babelsberg into the global Cinespace Group, following its acquisition in the year of his arrival.
Bachmeier arrives from Los Angeles where he was CEO of production services consulting firm MediaXchange, and before that SVP, Head of Premium Studios at Warner Bros.' Machinima.
He previously held executive positions at Endemol, BBC Studios in London, and ZDF Studios in Germany, developing global franchises, managing high-profile IP, co-producing and delivering cross-platform storytelling across North America, EMEA and Latin America.
Bachmeier was born and raised in Germany and qualified to study law at Heidelberg University before entering the field of film and television.
Bachmaier's appointment comes at a pivotal time, said Ashley Rice, Chairman of Studio Babelsberg AG and President and Co-Managing Partner of Cinespace Studios.
“Jörg Bachmeier is poised to take Studio Babelsberg to new heights. His appointment comes at a pivotal time as we work to ensure Germany's competitiveness as a production location, revitalize the industry, and open a new chapter in German film and television production.”
Bachmeier said it was a “privilege” to take the reins at the iconic studio.
“Studio Babelsberg’s legacy of creativity and innovation brings me back home from Hollywood, and I am very much looking forward to supporting Germany’s vibrant creative and production industry, as well as international filmmakers and producers with their projects,” he said.
Founded in 1912, Babelsberg Studio is the world's oldest large-scale studio complex and the birthplace of German films. It currently houses 21 state-of-the-art sound stages, various backstage areas and outdoor sets across 42 acres.
