National Geographic Partners Appoints Head of Creative

HBO veteran Chris Spencer is joining National Geographic Partners (NGP) in the newly created role of executive VP of creative.

Spencer will report to National Geographic Partners CMO Jill Cress and oversee the premium marketing creative strategy and execution for the NGP portfolio, including the global networks. He will lead the creative direction and execution for the brand and the TV channels. Spencer has had a long creative career that includes decades at HBO, where he was head of marketing creative and executive produced campaigns for Sex and the City, The Sopranos, Game of Thrones and other series. In addition, he has co-directed numerous 30-minute documentaries and a feature film.

Cress said: “National Geographic is on an exciting journey to reinvigorate this beloved global brand. Chris’s vast experience in marketing in the premium content space—particularly in the scripted or dramatic series space—will elevate the creative vision and expression across NGP. I am thrilled to have him lead our incredibly talented team as we continue to push ourselves further to deliver on the ambition of our unrivaled, purpose-driven media company.”

“I have a genuine and lifelong passion for this brand, and am inspired by the work that Courteney, Jill and the entire Partners’ organization have done to really engage the global public,” added Spencer. “The channel’s premium content strategy makes for an exciting time across the entire company, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead such a dynamic creative team.”