Former STAR COO Lands at Travel Channel

KNOXVILLE: Laureen Ong, who ran National Geographic Channel in the U.S. for a number of years before becoming COO at STAR in Hong Kong, has been tapped as the new president of Travel Channel.

Ong takes up her post at the channel, now owned by Scripps Networks Interactive, on April 19. “Laureen has the brand experience and proven track record in developing non-fiction television that will help us build on the recent success that Travel Channel has achieved,” said Kenneth W. Lowe, the chairman, president and CEO of Scripps Networks Interactive. “She also has an excellent business acumen that will facilitate expanding the brand into new ventures within the travel category, much like we have done with Food Network and HGTV.”

Commenting on her new post, Ong said: “The travel category is broad and expansive, and Travel Channel is the only network dedicated to transporting viewers to new places and exciting experiences all around the world. It serves as a trusted source for people who want to satisfy their curiosities. The opportunity here lies in building on the strengths of the current business to become the default destination for travelers of every ilk—whether the adventure is for a single day exploring a new town or two weeks traveling the globe.”

In related news, Scripps has named Jonathan Sichel as general manager of the network. He was previously senior VP of commercial affairs and operations at Travel Channel, and has been interim GM since its sale to Scripps. Sichel and Ong will focus on building the brand, developing additional programming and talent to increase ratings, and creating new business opportunities.