Courteney Monroe Re-Ups as Head of Nat Geo Global Networks

Courteney Monroe is continuing her role as president of National Geographic Global Networks, re-upping with the company ahead of the expected Disney merger.

Monroe will continue to report to Gary Knell, chairman of National Geographic Partners, and work closely with Peter Rice, currently president of 21st Century Fox and chairman and CEO of Fox Networks Group. She will continue to oversee global programming, operations and marketing for the portfolio of National Geographic channels around the world. She also oversees NG Studios, the company’s in-house production unit, as well as the recently established National Geographic Documentary Films banner.

Additionally, Geoff Daniels will become executive VP of global unscripted entertainment for National Geographic Channels. Daniels, who has been serving in this role on an interim basis, will assume the position immediately. He will continue to report to Monroe and is based in National Geographic’s Washington, D.C., headquarters. Carolyn Bernstein will become executive VP of global scripted content and documentary films, adding oversight of feature documentaries released under the National Geographic Documentary Films banner. Bernstein will continue to report to Monroe and is based in the network’s Los Angeles office.

“We’re very excited to build on Courteney’s successful strategy, which has resulted in year-over-year growth, generated unprecedented critical acclaim and significantly raised the profile of National Geographic,” said Knell. “I have no doubt that Courteney will continue to drive growth and success for our brand around the world.”

Monroe added: “It has been the opportunity of a lifetime to lead the transformation of the National Geographic television business. I’m incredibly grateful to Peter and Gary for their ongoing support and leadership and I look forward to taking our brand and business to even greater heights as part of Disney’s expanded media portfolio.”

Rice commented: “Courteney has done an exceptional job leading National Geographic Global Networks through a strategic transformation that has unlocked a new level of critical and commercial success for this beloved brand. I am pleased she’ll continue to play such an important role in positioning National Geographic for future success.”