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MUMBAI:
Brooke Runnette has been named National Geographic Television
(NGT) president, succeeding Maryanne Culpepper.
Runnette
will report to National Geographic Society chairman, CEO John
Fahey.
Runnette
recently joined the National Geographic Channels from archrival
Discovery, where she was executive producer and director of
development for specials, including Shark Week. She will transition
over the next month from her current position as vice president,
development and special projects, at the Channels into the
role at NGT.
Fahey
said, "Our top priority at National Geographic Television
is finding and producing the best content and original programming
to support the international growth and influence of our cable
channels around the world. Brooke joined the National Geographic
Channels just as we were searching for the right executive
to lead our television production group, and we quickly realized
that she was the perfect fit for that key role - with the
passion, drive, experience and industry knowledge that can
continue and build the National Geographic Television franchise.
Brooke's track record speaks for itself, and we are excited
to have her on our team."
NGC
CEO David Lyle said, "We were thrilled to have Brooke
join National Geographic Channels, and this next step will
further our important partnership with National Geographic
Television. The role of NGT in expanding upon our recent success
will be critical, and Brooke is exactly the partner we will
need to make this happen."
One
of Runnette's first assignments at the National Geographic
Channels was related to the network's 2013 series 'The 80's:
The Decade That Made Us', from Jane Root's Nutopia, and she
will continue to executive produce this important series as
she transitions to NGT.
Runnette will oversee series, special events and live programming
that bring the stories of National Geographic's scientists,
explorers and unique storytellers to the National Geographic
Channels. Her vast experience and reputation with the best
nonfiction producers and production companies worldwide will
enable her to deliver creative, groundbreaking content.
While
at Discovery, Runnette put greater emphasis on natural history
as part of Shark Week and increased 'Shark Week' ratings.
Under her direction, the 2010 'Shark Week' was the highest
rated in the 23-year history of the annual event. She also
led efforts within Discovery to work more closely with scientists
and conservation organisations such as Oceana and the Pew
Charitable Trust's Global Shark Conservation group.
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