US-basedWellspring Media has moved to bolster its video distribution and originalprogramming operations through a deal with Mark Gilula's Stanford Media Group.

Gilula will headup Wellspring's home video operation and work with the company's team toservice sales to current key accounts, open additional distribution channels,acquire new programming and arrange strategic marketing partnerships.

Wellspring'shome video sales staff will report to Gilula, who in turn will report toWellspring president and chief executive officer Al Cattabiani.

"Mark is aseasoned veteran, and a trusted friend, who brings a wide range of experienceto our business," Cattabiani said in a statement.

"Having built asolid distribution base on our high-end library, we're ready to take the nextsteps in going deeper with our current customers and getting into higher-volumechannels.'

Gilula'smanagement team at Wellspring's home video business unit comprises: Karen Bell,director of sales in special markets; Drew Manister, Western regional salesmanager; Kathy Gilbert, southern regional sales manager; and Marty Johnson,Northeastern regional sales manager.

Since 1996,Gilula and SMG have provided sales, marketing, programming and developmentservices to consumer product and entertainment companies. Prior to that heserved in senior posts at Landmark Theatres, Fox Hills Video, Wood-Knapp Videoand ABC Video.

"We are veryexcited to be brought on to spearhead Wellspring's Home Video operation'sgrowth. Greg [Ranney, SMG partner] and I have been developing severalinitiatives which fit perfectly with Wellspring's catalogue and channels."