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LONDON -- U.K. distrib Fireworks Intl. has appointed former Nickelodeon exec Paul Lewis to the newly-created position of development VP in its Los Angeles office, as it ramps up its presence in the U.S.

Lewis will spearhead the acquisition and development of scripted and non-scripted programming for Fireworks, which has grown rapidly since its acquisition by ContentFilm three years ago.

"The expansion of our TV division in L.A. is a critical step in continuing our rapid growth," said Greg Phillips, president of Fireworks Intl.

The company signaled its intentions to expand its North American business this year, after reporting a hike in 2007 revenues from $16.5 million to $27.5 million.

It already distributes successful Canuck drama skeins "Heartland" and "The Border," which was picked up by FX in the U.K. last month, and last year signed a five-year deal to distribute 300 hours of TV programs from U.S. distrib Harmony Gold.

Lewis was previously director of programming and development, live action and alternative programming at Nickelodeon, where he was responsible for overseeing shows including "Romeo," "Just Jordan" and "Just for Kicks."