Canadian producer Tieren Hawkins has been appointed as VP of vertical content at Blink49 Studios as the company expands into this fast-growing space.

Blink49 Studios has enlisted former FIFTH SEASON executive Yogita Puri as EVP for business and legal affairs, based in Los Angeles.

Elizabeth Firth has joined Blink49 Studios as SVP of partnerships and commercial strategy, working out of New York to drive its brand-funded entertainment initiatives.

Blink49 Studios has struck a two-year first-look producing agreement with Electric Avenue, the outfit founded by Will Arnett and Marc Forman.

Lighthearted Entertainment, led by Rob LaPlante and Jeff Spangler and behind such shows as Ready to Love, Are You The One?, and Queen’s Court, has been acquired by Blink49 Studios.