Viacom Restructures Media Networks Group

Viacom has revealed a new structure for its Media Networks group, streamlining it into four teams.

The Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land group will be led by Kent Alterman as president. Chris McCarthy will expand his current role as president of MTV, VH1 and Logo to now include CMT. Alterman and McCarthy will continue to report to CEO Bob Bakish. There are no changes to BET Networks or Nickelodeon. Kevin Kay will step down as president of Paramount Network, TV Land and CMT after a transition period.

“These changes mark the next step in the ongoing evolution of our company as we continue to ensure we’re making the most of our great assets and resources, and operating as nimbly and efficiently as we can,” said Bakish. “Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land share an original content strategy anchored in scripted programming, and CMT—with its deep roots in music and unscripted programming—is a natural partner for MTV and VH1. Kent and Chris have been driving forces behind Viacom’s flagship strategy, re-energizing and growing two of our most iconic brands, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

“Over the course of his career at Viacom, Kevin’s creative vision and gift for telling great stories have made a lasting impact,” Bakish added. “Thanks to the efforts of Kevin and his team, we have successfully established Paramount Network as a home for premium content, and TV Land and CMT continue to be dominant forces in the audiences they serve. I’m so grateful for the many contributions they have made in evolving and strengthening these world-class brands for their next chapter.”