Lauren Zalaznick Exits NBCU

NEW YORK: Lauren Zalaznick is leaving NBCUniversal after 12 years with the company, with members of her team now reporting to Jeff Shell, the newly appointed chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, or Cesar Conde, recently tapped as executive VP.

Zalaznick was most recently executive VP of NBCUniversal, charged with exploring new digital opportunities for the company. Previously, she was chairman of entertainment and digital networks, overseeing Bravo, Oxygen, Telemundo and a host of other networks, most of which are now under the remit of Bonnie Hammer. Joe Uva, meanwhile, was recently brought in to manage the company's Hispanic portfolio.

In a memo to NBCU staff, CEO Steve Burke noted: "Those of you who know Lauren well know she is one of those rare executives that combine great creative instincts with a true business orientation. Her contributions to our company have been significant and far-reaching, from cable entertainment to Spanish-language broadcast, from digital initiatives to new marketing campaigns. Lauren also has been an important champion for many of our company-wide initiatives."

Burke said that "Lauren will remain at the company to transition her current portfolio, and then consult with NBCUniversal on digital media content and technology marketplace trends."