Pulse Films has hired Diene Petterle, former Darlow Smithson Creative Director and BBC Commissioner, as Global Creative Director of Non-Fiction.

Petterle, who earned an International Emmy for ITV's In Cold Blood, will concentrate on developing and delivering a high-quality slate of factual programming and documentaries in both the UK and the US, as well as expanding the indie's footprint in Latin America.

She will report to Marisa Clifford, CEO (UK / Europe)/Founder, and work closely with Thomas Benski, CEO/Founder.

On the British factual scene, Petterle is a well-known character. During her time at Banijay indie Darlow Smithson (now DSP), she helped tripled the company's turnover before launching Petterle Films last year, selling an unannounced premium series to a big streamer with Waterloo Road producer Wall to Wall.

She was also a former BBC commissioner who oversaw shows such as Who Do You Think You Are?

Samira Sorzano, the Global Communications Director for Gangs of London, has been appointed to her position.

The Sleepwalker, which premiered last night on Sky and will air on Hulu, was produced by the indie, as was HBO Max's Harry Potter 20th Anniversary program. Pulse has optioned the rights to UK writer Moses McKenzie's debut novel An Olive Grove in Ends, according to Deadline.

“Pulse Films is a dynamic production company that has recently secured some huge commissions with global streamers and mainstream broadcasters,” said Petterle.

“With a strong record of producing award-winning feature documentaries, sought after by Sundance and other major festivals, as well as hit series on streamers, I am excited to continue building on this strong brand.”