MUMBAI: MTV has promoted veteran entertainment and television executive David Janollari to the expanded role of executive vice president, head of programming for the network effective immediately.
In addition, Chris Linn will become executive vice president, programming and head of MTV Production.
With Janollari and Linn’s new roles overseeing programming and production, MTV is well positioned to continue building on its leadership among the 12-34 year old audience. MTV recently closed its fiscal year with a 27% ratings increase for Q3’10, compared to last year, and Q4′ 10 is off to a great start with a 61% increase year to year, making October’s year-to-year growth the best for any month in MTV history. Moving forward, Janollari and Linn will oversee a diverse group of talented programming executives who cover a range of productions including scripted, reality, music, comedy, animation, news, documentaries, live studio, specials and events.
"MTV produces more content than anyone else in television. With David’s professional pedigree and track record in TV entertainment combined with Chris’ creative instinct and production prowess, they are the perfect team to continue our momentum and help take MTV into its next wave of reinvention," said MTV Networks Music & Logo Group president Van Toffler.
Janollari will oversee the scripted, comedy, animation and west coast reality teams, as well as partnering with Linn on east coast reality development and on potential TV movies that could serve as back door pilots for series. In addition to partnering with Janollari on east coast reality, Linn will manage made-for-TV movies, news and specials, studio productions, music development and production management.
MTV general manager Stephen Friedman said, "As we continue to expand our development and programming slates to satiate our audience’s voracious appetite for different kinds of entertainment, David, Chris and their stellar teams will ensure we keep pioneering new creative that builds on MTV’s legacy."
