Manchester, England-based animation studio Factory has tapped Zoë Bamsey as its first ever chief content officer. According to the company, this hire is the most recent effort in its continued commitment to develop and produce its own properties.

In her new role, Bamsey will be responsible for identifying creative-led business opportunities and new IPs. Additionally, she will assist the board to further define, develop and implement its business plan and shape the development and production strategies for both new and Factory-owned IP.

Bamsey joins Factory from Coolabi Group, where she served as director of production and development. At Coolabi she was responsible for sales, production, funding and development of all programming including Poppy Cat, The Clangers and Scream Street (co-produced with Factory). Previously, Bamsey held a variety of roles at the Walt Disney Company, including executive director of programming and director of worldwide programming strategy.

Earlier this year, Factory acquired UK-based Rollo Rights in a move that will see the company develop its own IPs under a new licensing and brand management division called Factory Rights. The acquisition gives Factory access to a catalog of brands including David McKee’s classic Mr Benn, Rupert Fawcett’s Off the Leash, King Rollo and Towser.