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Russell Dever
Managing Director at Those Licensing People
Professional Background
Russell Dever is a distinguished entrepreneur and the founding Director of Those Licensing People (TLP), a company based primarily in the UK, specializing in the development of licensing opportunities across a diverse portfolio of beloved children’s properties. TLP proudly manages rights for classic brands such as Sooty and Sweep, The Magic Roundabout, Roobarb and Custard, Willo The Whisp, and The Little Prince/Le Petit Prince. Under Russell's visionary leadership, TLP has successfully created and owned the SEOD (Subscription Entertainment On Demand) broadcasting platform known as KidsCast. This innovative platform is recognized for providing a safe and enjoyable experience for children, offering access to a variety of television shows, compelling digital games, and an engaging monthly interactive webzine. With an eye towards the future, KidsCast is also set to introduce virtual reality content later this year, further enhancing the viewing experience while ensuring the utmost digital safety for its young audience.
In recognizing the evolution of children's entertainment, Russell has endeavored to change the way kids watch TV. The KidsCast app stands out due to its commitment to a seamless viewing experience, free from in-app advertising, thus allowing for better content management by parents or guardians concerned about screen time. Moreover, the app is designed to be fully castable to any Bluetooth media device, ensuring versatility in how kids enjoy their favorite shows.
In addition to his endeavors in licensing and digital content, Russell has ventured into the literary space with Stories For Stars, a unique publishing initiative that focuses on print on demand classic books. This venture not only provides customers with beautifully crafted stories but also includes a specially personalized feature that allows customers to change the name of a star in the heavens through an official star registry, creating a one-of-a-kind gift experience shipped globally. Moreover, Russell's innovative spirit extends to the pet industry, where he has successfully licensed pet food products featuring Roobarb and Custard through a partnership with Two Near the Bone Ltd, allowing fans to access these adorable characters in a new and engaging way.
Education and Achievements
Russell Dever’s educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree from Leeds Metropolitan University, where he developed a solid foundation in business principles and entrepreneurship. Further enhancing his knowledge and skills, Russell also attended Ashridge Business School, an institution renowned for its focus on leadership and management excellence. His educational pursuits have undoubtedly equipped him with the strategic insights necessary to navigate the complexities of the licensing industry effectively.
With a robust career characterized by leadership roles, Russell formerly served as the Managing Director of 1461 Limited, and also owned Dever Ltd, showcasing his diversified expertise and entrepreneurial drive beyond TLP. His extensive experience has empowered him to understand the intricacies of managing and promoting licensing rights for renowned intellectual properties, fostering meaningful engagement between brands and their audiences.
Achievements
Russell Dever’s most notable achievements include the successful establishment of Those Licensing People, which has emerged as a pivotal player in the licensing industry, especially for children’s content. His commitment to creating a safe, fun, and enriching environment for children through innovative digital platforms like KidsCast represents his dedication to enhancing the quality of children's programming.
The positive impact of KidsCast on children's media consumption cannot be overstated, as it introduces classic television content to a new generation while prioritizing a safe viewing experience. Russell’s ability to adapt to technological advancements and consumer needs reflects his forward-thinking approach and dedication to improving children’s entertainment.
Moreover, with the launch of Stories For Stars, Russell has combined literature and personalization in a manner that resonates deeply with consumers seeking unique gifting options, thereby expanding the footprint of TLP beyond traditional licensing.
Russell’s venture into the pet food market through licensing character-driven products signifies a clever expansion of brand relevance, tapping into broader consumer trends that favor character integration in diverse market segments. This innovative approach demonstrates his acumen in identifying and leveraging opportunities to enrich brand experiences.
As he continues to pioneer advancements in media and licensing for children, Russell Dever exemplifies professional growth, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to providing safety and enjoyment in children’s entertainment, making him a notable figure in the industry as a leader, entrepreneur, and visionary.
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