A+E Networks UK Bolsters Leadership Team

LONDON: A+E Networks UK has named Adrian Pilkington as the company's senior VP of distribution and strategy, effective September 1.

In his newly created position, Pilkington is charged with the strategic planning and execution of branded channel and digital distribution across the U.K., Nordics, Benelux and CEEMEA territories. He will also develop A+E Networks UK's high-growth corporate strategy with recently appointed COO Nicolas Eglau, who he will work under.

Pilkington previously served as director of partner channels at Sky, where he managed successful commercial partnerships with more than 60 retailed channels, overseeing such strategic initiatives as Sky's HD, Sky Go and more recently the NOW TV partner channel launch program. He also supervised a team of commercial and research execs responsible for Sky's partnership strategy with all key U.K. channel groups.

"We are continuing to build a first-class management team at A+E Networks UK to drive the growth of our brands and business," said Dean Possenniskie, the managing director for EMEA at A+E Networks. "Distribution and strategy is a key element to our future success and growth plans, and I am delighted to bring an executive of Adrian's caliber and experience to lead this area of our business."

Pilkington added: "I'm delighted to be joining the A+E Networks UK management team at such an exciting time. The company has raised its ambitions across all territories and it's a privilege to be part of this new challenge."