Discovery Appoints SVP for U.K. & EMEA Commercial Teams

LONDON: Discovery Networks International has named Chris Shaw as senior VP of commercial development for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, as well as the U.K.

Shaw will work to maximize commercial opportunities across these markets, including the development and implementation of advertising revenue strategies for spots, sponsorships and brand partnerships. He will also work on new business opportunities such as the development of branded content. Shaw will manage advertising representative/agent relationships as well. Shaw has been working with Discovery on a consultancy basis for the last year and has been leading a number of projects across both regions. He is managing the negotiation of the new U.K. business ad sales contract ,which will start in 2010, and has implemented a series of strategic initiatives across EMEA, including a new ad sales system, an internal ad sales training academy and new ad sales opportunities. Prior to Discovery, Shaw spent two years as head of commercial strategy at 19 Entertainment, working closely with Simon Fuller.

David Rey, the COO of Discovery Networks EMEA, said: “Chris has extensive advertising experience and a strong track record in the industry. He has been integral to EMEA’s senior management team over the past year, partnering with our local ad sales teams to drive business in the local markets. In his new role Chris’ leadership and revolutionary spirit will combine to accelerate the success of our ad sales teams across the region.”

Sahar Elhabashi, the COO of DNI and acting managing director of Discovery Networks UK, added: "Chris has been a critical contributor in the negotiations for Discovery’s new U.K. ad sales contract which starts next year. Discovery has a significant U.K. business with 12 channel brands which reach over 2.5 million people per day. It is an exciting time for the U.K. business and we are pleased that Chris will be driving our commercial strategy.”