Fred Rogers Productions has promoted Matthew Shiels from Director to Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs, a new role in which he will oversee licensing for the company and its brands, in addition to his legal responsibilities. Shiels will report directly to COO Christopher Arnold.
“Matt is a valued member of our senior executive team,” said Arnold. “He has formed and strengthened relationships with our partners while shaping and implementing our strategic vision for international distribution, licensing, and merchandising. Most importantly, Matt models our core values of thoughtfulness, respect, and dedication to his craft.”
Shiels joined Fred Rogers Productions in 2017. He advises the company on general corporate matters and is responsible for agreements covering program development, production and distribution, merchandise licensing, intellectual property, copyright and trademarks, and the administration of its music library.
A nonprofit children’s entertainment producer, Fred Rogers Productions is known for its PBS Kids series Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Odd Squad, Peg + Cat, Donkey Hodie, and the upcoming Alma’s Way.
“I feel privileged to work with such a talented and dedicated team who is committed to advancing our mission of providing quality, meaningful content for children and their families around the world,” said Shiels.
Previously, Shiels handled a broad range of legal services, such as patent and trademark counseling and litigation services, for the Pittsburgh-based law firm Reed Smith LLP. Before that, he was a partner at Kirkland & Ellis, LLC in Chicago.