Discovery Taps Former Miramax CEO Michael Lang

LONDON: Discovery Communications has named Michael Lang to the newly created position of executive VP of international development and digital.

The appointment will take effect in April. In his new role, Lang will lead Discovery Networks International’s corporate development. He will be responsible for both the strategy and execution of mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, divestitures, and other equity-related transactions and third-party partnerships. In addition, Lang will work with the international management team to accelerate existing initiatives, including the Eurosport Player, Dplay and Discovery K!ds Play, and to help shape and carry out the division’s overall digital strategy.

Lang will be based in London, where he will report to Bruce Campbell, the chief development, distribution and legal officer, and Jean-Briac Perrette, the president of Discovery Networks International. Lang joins Discovery from Lang Media Group, an advisory and sponsor equity firm, which advises traditional and digital media clients on strategic issues, M&A, digital distribution, organizational needs, OTT product development, and venture and private equity capital raises. Prior to that, Lang served as CEO of Miramax, and has also worked at Fox Entertainment, where he helped create Hulu, and The Walt Disney Company.

“I am thrilled to have Mike working with Bruce and JB to accelerate the growth of our international business and extend the reach of our content across all screens around the world,” said David Zaslav, the president and CEO of Discovery Communications.

Campbell commented, “As a highly regarded strategist, dealmaker and executive in both the entertainment and digital space, Mike’s vision and relationships combined with our robust portfolio, deep talent and strong momentum, will greatly benefit Discovery’s multiplatform strategy and drive immediate and impactful growth.”

“I’ve known Mike for more than a decade and he’s one of the most strategic and driven business development leaders in media with a unique background helping to build some of the most successful digital businesses and brands,” Perrette added. “I couldn’t be more excited about having Mike join our team.”