Sahar Baghery Appointed Director of Distribution, Marketing, and Commercialization at TV5MONDE

TV5MONDE has announced the appointment of Sahar Baghery as Director of Distribution, Marketing, and Commercialization, effective March 2, 2026. This strategic move positions the francophone network for continued growth in a rapidly evolving global media landscape.

Strategic Alignment with Evolving Media Consumption

The appointment aligns with TV5MONDE’s ongoing strategy of development and modernization, which began in 2020 with the launch of TV5MONDEplus, its global French-language video-on-demand platform. The network recognizes the acceleration of media consumption habits and the increasing complexity of distribution channels – spanning linear television, platforms, and digital environments – necessitating a dedicated leadership role to integrate audience acquisition, operator relations, and commercial performance.

An International Profile with Extensive Media Experience

Sahar Baghery brings over fifteen years of experience in the media, digital, and entertainment industries, with a career spanning the United Kingdom, the United States, and France. She began her career at Nielsen in London before joining CNN and NBC Universal in the United States. Further experience includes roles at The Walt Disney Company, Groupe CANAL+, Médiamétrie/Glance, and the SACD.

From 2018, Baghery led global development for Prime Video from the UK, subsequently overseeing programming strategy in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Amazon Studios. Most recently, in 2022, she was appointed Director of Content Acquisitions and Co-productions for Prime Video in France, demonstrating a proven “platform” culture.

Global Reach and Regional Coordination

At TV5MONDE, Baghery will oversee an international organization, coordinating the efforts of teams responsible for the distribution, marketing, and commercialization of TV5MONDE’s content across the 200 countries and territories where the network operates. Her operational objective will be to align distribution, marketing, and commercialization strategies on a regional basis, supported by a team of six regional directors.

Leadership Transition and Continued Momentum

Sahar Baghery succeeds Denise Époté, who is retiring. TV5MONDE has announced that Époté will continue to collaborate as a senior advisor during the transition. This leadership change occurs as TV5MONDE continues its transformation, emphasizing modernization and a heightened focus on digital priorities.

Strengthening TV5MONDE’s Market Position

This appointment reinforces TV5MONDE’s capabilities in international distribution, marketing expertise, and commercial performance. Baghery’s extensive global experience and platform knowledge are expected to accelerate the adaptation of TV5MONDE’s offerings and enhance the visibility of the francophonie worldwide.

Read more about TV5MONDE’s strategy here.