Leadership Appointments in Place for New “Fox”

Key leadership appointments have been made for the new “Fox,” the company to be spun off from 21st Century Fox in connection with the merger with The Walt Disney Company.

Eric Shanks has been elevated to CEO of FOX Sports from his current role of president, COO and executive producer at FOX Sports. Mike Biard is to serve as president of operations and distribution for Fox, upped from president of distribution for Fox Networks Group. Paul Cheesbrough has been promoted to chief technology officer and head of direct-to-consumer platforms for Fox; he currently serves as 21CF’s CTO. Additionally, Marianne Gambelli is being elevated to president of ad sales, and Steve Tomsic is being promoted to Fox’s CFO, having served as 21CF’s executive VP of finance and deputy CFO.

The appointments are effective upon the close of 21CF’s Disney transaction and the creation of Fox.

“We are fortunate to be able to continue working with these enormously talented executives who have helped make our businesses the incredible successes they are today,” said Lachlan Murdoch, the future chairman and CEO of the new Fox. “Collectively they bring to Fox the vision, entrepreneurial spirit and proven track records to position Fox to seize future opportunities for its leading and deeply resonant brands across sports, news and entertainment.”