UNI Gets New MD in Set of Appointments

LONDON: Two new appointments have been made within NBCUniversal’s pay-TV channels business, one of which sees Satpal Brainch becoming the executive VP and managing director of Universal Networks International (UNI).

Brainch takes up the new role on May 8, reporting to Belinda Menendez, the president of International Television Distribution and Universal Networks International. This gives Brainch oversight for the overall business strategy at UNI, including affiliate sales, ad sales, programming and strategic operations. The appointment sees Brainch relocating from Singapore to London, after having held the post of president and managing director of CNBC International.

Duccio Donati has been elevated to the newly created role of executive VP of E! and Style, effective in June. Donati will be leading the E! and Style international channels. His focus will be on operations, increased localization, production, branding, acquisitions and digital products. Donati is relocating from London to Los Angeles. He has been serving as the executive VP of UNI.

Menendez commented, “I am delighted to appoint two such talented executives to these key leadership roles for Universal Networks International. Both Sat and Duccio’s considerable experience and breadth of skill will position us strongly for future strategic growth across our pay-TV channels business.”