Ovation Hires Content Distribution SVP, Promotes Scott Woodward

SANTA MONICA: Ovation TV has appointed seasoned cable exec Mike Pons as its new senior VP of content distribution, while Scott Woodward moves up to executive VP of programming and production.

Pons is charged with overseeing the network's key relationships with national accounts, including DIRECTV, Dish, AT&T U-verse and Charter. He will help develop the channel's overall strategy for maximizing distribution and revenue related to its SD, HD, VOD and TV Everywhere platforms. Pons will also manage the company's international and digital content distribution strategies. He will work out of Santa Monica under Brad Samuels, Ovation's executive VP of content distribution.

Previously, Pons served as the general manager of business development at Cox Communications. He also co-founded, launched and was the GM of Essential Cloud. Earlier in his career, he held the title of VP and general manager of The Weather Channel Local Media, among several other roles at different companies.

"Distribution hit a milestone 52 million subscribers in 2014 and we continue to experience strong support and great relationships with the largest pay TV providers," said Samuels. "Mike's extensive experience in business development and strategic partnerships is critical to our success as we continue to expand our footprint and range of distributor partnerships in the future."

Woodward was hired by Ovation in November 2013. Since then, he has supervised all aspects of the network's multiplatform content, while also expanding its original programming slate, including such hit series as Young Marvels, The Art Of and The Fashion Fund. In his new position, he will focus on introducing new shows and specials throughout the year, including On the Record with Mick Rock, American Canvas, The Artful Detective and the U.S. premiere of Isabella Rossellini's Green Porno Live!

"In the last 14 months, Scott has made developing, producing and programming highly rated original content a top priority for this network," added Charles Segars, the CEO of Ovation TV. "By combining creative and strategic thinking, he's infused a new energy into our programming department and created a model for success that has our arts-focused network on an upward trajectory for ratings and brand awareness."