A+E Networks Ups Trio of Distribution Execs

A+E Networks has promoted three executives on its distribution team, including former senior VP of distribution Jane Rice, who is set to take on the role of executive VP of content distribution and marketing.

Additionally, Mark Garner has been named executive VP of content licensing and business development, and Richard Shirley has been promoted to senior VP of distribution business development. All based at A+E Networks’ headquarters in New York, Shirley will report to Garner, while Rice and Garner will continue to report to David Zagin, the company’s president of distribution.

In her new role, Rice will drive strategy and distribution for A+E Networks’ portfolio of content in the U.S. and Canada across cable, telco, satellite and OTT. Rice is a ten-year veteran of A+E Networks.

Garner will oversee global multiplatform monetization strategy for the company’s library and pipeline of owned and original content through a combination of strategic and commercial partnerships, co-productions and new distribution opportunities. He’ll continue his oversight of the product operations function for the distribution group. Garner joined A+E in 2007 as VP of distribution business development, analytics and marketing.

Specializing in product development, delivery infrastructure and distribution strategy, Shirley will oversee the deployment of A+E content on pay-TV partners’ digital platforms. He has helped position A+E Networks’ brands on multiple platforms and played a lead role in initiatives such as dynamic ad insertion, website and mobile authentication and live linear streaming. Richard joined A+E Networks in 2005 as manager of VOD marketing.

“The way in which we reach our consumers has never been more diverse or as interesting as it is right now,” said Zagin. “Jane and Mark have both proven to be strategic leaders in distribution and, along with Richard’s efforts, this group is continually innovating to ensure A+E grows as a preferred partner in the industry and a top destination for fans.”