Hernan Lopez to Exit FIC

LOS ANGELES: FOX International Channels CEO Hernan Lopez is stepping down to launch a new venture, while Fox Networks Group restructures its operations and discontinues the FIC banner.

Under the new structure, Jan Koeppen will become president of Fox Networks Group Europe; Carlos Martinez will become president of Fox Networks Group Latin America; and Zubin Gandevia will become president of Fox Networks Group Asia. All will report to Fox Networks Group (FNG) CEO and Chairman Peter Rice and FNG President and COO Randy Freer. Koeppen, Martinez and Gandevia will oversee Fox Network Groups’ 350-plus international entertainment, sports, factual and movie channels.

Rice said: “As our television business expands globally, the success and scale of our entertainment and sports brands in these fast-growing regions demand that they stand independently. Jan, Carlos and Zubin are extremely talented executives with a sharp understanding of the opportunities for new content and programming in their regions.”

Rice added: “Hernan has been a driving force in the development of our global television strategy and in building our channels around the world. He is one of the most talented and insightful executives I have worked with and we wish him the very best with his new venture.”

Lopez added: “At Fox, I’ve been fortunate to work with some of the most talented and creative people in media. I want to thank the several thousand employees and alumni of FIC, as well as Peter Rice, Chase Carey, James, Lachlan and Rupert Murdoch. I’ve been inspired by them and many colleagues throughout Fox, News Corp and Sky, and look forward to future collaborations as I embark on this next stage of my career.”