Former Fox Broadcasting Chairman of Entertainment Peter Liguori is hooking up with Oprah Winfrey and the existing channels at Discovery Communications as the company’s Chief Operating Officer. One of his key duties will be the launch of OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network.
As COO, Liguori fills the position left vacant when Mark Hollinger was named President and CEO of Discovery International. Liguori will report to Discovery Communications President and CEO David Zaslav. Liguori will join Discovery on January 19, 2010.
“Peter has been one of the most successful leaders in the media industry over the past 25 years, and has a keen eye for standout marketing and distinctive, compelling content. He brings to Discovery managerial depth and extensive relationships with the creative community that will be major assets as we continue to build our existing brands, launch new services and create additional opportunities for growth,” said Zaslav.
As COO, Discovery said Liguori will be a key member of the senior management team with oversight of Marketing, Discovery Studios, Corporate Communications and Corporate Affairs, Business Affairs, and Media Technology, Production and Operations.
In addition to his operational responsibilities, Liguori will serve as the lead executive representing Discovery Communications in its joint ventures with Hasbro Inc. and OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network. Liguori also will chair Discovery’s Content Committee comprised of the US Networks General Managers with a focus on maximizing the value of the company’s marketing resources, network portfolio and overall corporate assets.
“When you look across the media landscape, there is simply no better positioned company than Discovery Communications. David Zaslav has done an exceptional job creating shareholder value and improving the brand strength and marketplace position of the company’s global networks. I am joining the team at an exciting time and look forward to being part of this dynamic and creative organization and helping to accelerate the company’s already substantial momentum,” said Liguori.
Liguori exited Fox as News Corporation made a major management shakeup in March. He had been at Fox since 1996, following many years at HBO.
