The CW Taps NBCU Alum as Head of Unscripted Programming

NBCUniversal alum Heather Olander has been appointed to the newly created position of head of unscripted programming at The CW Network.

Olander will oversee the development and production of alternative reality series, events and specials for the network. Most recently, she served as executive VP of alternative development and programming for NBCUniversal’s USA, SYFY and Peacock.

Olander originally joined NBCUniversal in 2011 as senior VP of alternative development and programming for USA Network before adding oversight of SYFY’s alternative programming in 2014. She took on her most recent role in 2019. Prior to joining NBCUniversal, she served as VP of original series development and current programming at MTV from 2003 to 2010.

Over her career, Olander has launched a slate of non-scripted series that includes the Chrisley Knows Best franchise, the Temptation Island reboot, Miz & Mrs. and Straight Up Steve Austin.

“As we reimagine our programming strategy, we are truly fortunate to have Heather Olander leading the unscripted team at The CW,” said Brad Schwartz, president of entertainment for The CW Network. “Heather is an industry dynamo with a stellar reputation for discovering talent and cultivating relationships with content producers. With her boundless creativity, I’m confident we’ll develop innovative nonfiction series for The CW Network that catalyzes conversations.”

“I’m incredibly honored to join Brad and the team at this exciting time of transformation for The CW,” commented Olander. “I’m looking forward to developing a fresh slate of non-scripted programming and collaborating with non-scripted producers on new innovative and creative content that can break through and resonate with viewers.”