(5 July 2005 6:00 pm)

MUMBAI: Comcast-Sony Networks, a joint-venture between Comcast Corp and Sony Pictures Entertainment, has appointed MTV Network's EVP of acquisitions strategies Diane Robina as its new president.

Based out of Philadelphia, where Comcast is headquartered, Robina will report to Comcast programming president Jeff Shell.

The Comcast-Sony Networks venture is expected to launch standard cable movie channels, utilising Comcast's distribution platform and Sony's MGM library as well as the studio's own film and television catalogue.

Comcast networks include E!, Style Network, G4techTV, International Channel Networks, Outdoor Life Network and The Golf Channel. The company is also planning a preschool channel based on its Sprout VoD service this fall.