After Party Studios has appointed Joshua Barnett as Chief Executive Officer. Barnett steps into the role after seven years as Managing Director, during which he helped expand the company’s slate across branded entertainment, digital-first production and original formats.
Founded by YouTuber Callux (Callum McGinley) and director Ben Doyle (known professionally as RVBBERDUCK), After Party Studios has become one of the leading players in social video production. Its credits include TellyCast Digital Video Award-winning Sky Sports SCENES, which has reached over 130 million views across three series, Channel 4.0’s Find The Cheater, which drew 30 million organic views in four days, and Sidemen Charity Match, which sold out Wembley Stadium and achieved over 19 million catch-up views. The studio also produces League of ’72, a Sky Bet and EFL collaboration and Best Sports Channel award winner.
As CEO, Barnett will focus on expanding After Party’s presence in international partnerships, digital-first formats and branded content. His leadership tenure as MD saw the studio attract clients including Sky, Netflix, Channel 4.0, Just Eat and O2.
Ben Doyle, co-founder of After Party Studios, said: “As MD, Joshua has guided After Party Studios’ transformation from a boutique production company into a globally recognised creative force.”
Callum McGinley added: “Josh’s respected leadership, sharp business vision and proven ability to scale teams position him perfectly to lead as CEO, propelling us into our next chapter of growth.”
Before joining After Party, Barnett was Head of Partnerships at YMU and previously UK Sales Director at Base79, one of YouTube’s early multi-channel networks. He played a key role in Base79’s £50 million sale to Rightster (now Brave Bison) in 2014.
Barnett said: “The past seven years have been an incredible ride. I’ve learned so much and couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve built across YouTube, TV, film, socials and sport. Producing the sold-out Sidemen Charity Match at Wembley – my third as Executive Producer – was a real career highlight. None of it happens without our 30+ strong, award-winning team. To be elevated to CEO at such a pivotal moment means everything.”
The appointment follows the recommission of Don’t Get Catfished, After Party’s co-production with Bakers Dozen Studios for Channel 4.0, renewed before its first series has premiered.
