Former Virgin Media and Abu Dhabi Media exec to head China joint venture.

Former Virgin and Abu Dhabi Media executive Malcolm Wall is to lead Pinewood Studios and Seven Stars Media’s new joint venture in China, Song Lin.

The joint venture agreement, announced in April 2013, was created to develop business opportunities in the Chinese entertainment market including film and TV co-productions.

Wall will be based in China to establish a project team and oversee the launch of the business. His appointment commences today [July 8].

The exec was formerly chief executive, content of Virgin Media, COO at United Business Media and most recently CEO and then advisor to the board at Abu Dhabi Media.

Pinewood’s Ivan Dunleavy commented: “I am thrilled that Malcolm has agreed to join Pinewood’s latest international joint venture. Song Lin is an exciting prospect for the Company. China’s growth in recent years has been phenomenal and this is especially true in the media sector. Pinewood wanted to appoint someone with the experience and skill to develop our offering in this important region and Malcolm was an obvious fit.”

Seven Star’s Bruno Wu commented: “This is an exciting appointment for Song Lin. As we look to get this project off the ground, we need someone who has worked at the highest levels in the international media sector to bring their experience to what is a fast growing and dynamic industry in China. I’m confident that Malcolm will be able to help us develop this new venture with Pinewood Studios.”