AMC Networks, New York, NY
5/2018–12/2022
Head of AMC Networks Publishing / Executive Director, Franchise & New IP Development
Launched & led AMC Networks Publishing, a book publishing arm that works with established & up-and-coming talent to develop, produce & sell fan-focused specialty books, comics, & original graphic novels. Produced strategic business plans, including complete finance, budgeting & P&L deliverables for full publishing line of books & comics.
- Led strategy, creative, storytelling, production, & development for critical initiatives covering existing & new IP, series & films
- Partnered and produced content with top external talent including Scott M. Gimple, Greg Nicotero, Kirk Hammett, Robert Kirkman, Stephen King, Kelly Sue DeConnick, Bill Sienkiewicz, & more
- Collaboratively launched & supported The Walking Dead Universe online platform, the first singular location for all creative/business components & products for AMC’s TWDU series & The Walking Dead Universe Roleplaying Game
- Identified franchise opportunities for key series including The Walking Dead, Breaking Bad / Better Call Saul, Mad Men, Killing Eve, Doctor Who, Orphan Black, Creepshow & Anne Rice’s Immortal Universe
- Aligned, curated, & integrated content with all networks & streaming services (AMC, BBC America, IFC, Sundance TV, WE tv, Shudder, Acorn TV, ALLBLK, Sun Now, Sentai Hidive Anime, & IFC Films)
- Worked with in-house teams & external vendors to produce content & style guides reflecting key design, editorial, brand & legal guidelines of franchises, new IP, & shows
- The Art of AMC’s The Walking Dead Universe book was a top selling product of the official The Walking Dead Universe shop
Personal Artwork & Comics © Mike Zagari | mike (at) mikezagari (dot) com