The Nerve Media Group, which provides music rights services to nearly 600 UK TV production companies, has appointed Nick Bennett as CEO as it broadens its focus beyond music licensing to support producers in developing digital, direct-to-consumer and branded-content revenue streams.
The company said the move reflects growing demand from independent production companies seeking to extend the commercial life of IP beyond broadcast windows.
Alongside its existing music library business, The Nerve is introducing advisory and training services aimed at helping producers build audiences, create new revenue opportunities and develop format extensions across digital platforms.
A key element of the expansion is the formation of a new advisory group that will provide strategic guidance on audience growth, monetisation and digital distribution. Members include Jonathan Allan, who led aspects of digital transformation and streaming strategy at Channel 4; David Alter, who helped grow direct-to-consumer subscriptions at The Economist, Sara Kozak; Hamo Forsyth; and Kevin Molloy.
Bennett joins The Nerve from WPP where he served as a managing consultant. He said: “Joining at such a pivotal industry moment feels like a rare opportunity to transform how IP is built and sustained. With our expanded range of services and the experience of our advisory group, we’re giving production companies the tools, the relationships and the roadmap to take control of their IP and step out of the shadows, building content that isn’t tied to a single platform or commissioning cycle, but designed to travel, grow and generate value on their own terms.”
