Business

Belfast digital media firm to create 20 jobs after US tie-up

Matthew Scott, founder of Navada Studios, with the firm’s operations director, Wendy Khor
Matthew Scott, founder of Navada Studios, with the firm’s operations director, Wendy Khor Matthew Scott, founder of Navada Studios, with the firm’s operations director, Wendy Khor

A BELFAST digital media company is to recruit 20 new staff after securing a partnership with a major US studio, headed by a Hollywood director.

Navada Studios said the new transatlantic partnership with LA-based content creation studio Rebel of America, founded by Rock Jacobs, will "disrupt the entertainment industry", with new digital formats, multi-channel approaches and immersive and interactive content experiences for digital-savvy audiences.

The two companies – both of which appeared at this year’s Digital DNA event in Belfast - have together launched a new multi-channel network which will see the creation of 50 new digital media channels covering everything from sport and fitness to innovation, environment, adventure, economics, education and fashion.

The Bangor founder of Navada Studios, Matthew Scott said the new roles, focused in the fields of creative, technical and production, will help the firm meet its ambitious growth plans.

"This is a really exciting deal for us. Rebel of America is the most respected content creation studio in the world and their involvement is testament to the respect we’ve built up in the industry.

“We’ve been in development mode for a few years and have worked hard to build up multi-million audiences for our clients. The next few years are going to see the business grow, not just in Northern Ireland but around the world.”

Navada Studios has also partnered with London studio Celebro Media, which is chaired by former BBC broadcaster Maxine Mawhinney,who originally hails from Belfast.

Navada Studios has UK offices in Belfast, London, and Newcastle Upon Tyne and is expanding into Sweden and both the east and west coasts of the USA.

Matthew Scott speaking at this year’s Digital DNA
Matthew Scott speaking at this year’s Digital DNA Matthew Scott speaking at this year’s Digital DNA