Viacom Names New EVP of Content Distribution

NEW YORK: Viacom has promoted Tom Gorke to the post of executive VP of content distribution, replacing Denise Denson, who is leaving the company.

In his new role, Gorke will oversee Viacom’s Media Networks distribution strategy and partnerships with all domestic affiliates. Gorke previously served as executive VP of sales and business development for content distribution at Viacom Media Networks and BET Networks. In that position, he led sales and new business efforts for all linear and digital distribution partnerships across BET, CMT, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Logo, Spike TV, TV Land and VH1, as well as Viacom’s joint venture EPIX.

Bob Bakish, acting president and CEO of Viacom, said, “Viacom is deeply committed to strengthening relationships with our distributors, and finding exciting new paths to bring our industry-leading content to their viewers. Tom has a track record of creative, successful deal making, including several major first-of-their-kind digital distribution agreements that helped launch groundbreaking streaming platforms for new entrants as well as existing MVPDs. He is a thoughtful executive who will be fully empowered to design new and innovative strategies to work with our important distribution partners.

“We thank Denise Denson for her many years of service and her extraordinary dedication to Viacom, and wish her all the best.”

Gorke said, “Viacom’s cable networks are the most-watched in the U.S., and have more subscribers around the world than any other family. I’m looking forward to expanding my work for these brands and appreciate Bob’s confidence in me and my team. It’s an exciting time—the industry environment is constantly changing and I believe there continues to be great opportunity for our brands and programming. We’re looking forward to working closely with our distribution partners around the world to think flexibly and identify new ways to expand our businesses together.”