Peter Rice upped to chairman and CEO of Fox Networks Group

July 23, 2012 by Barry Walsh

As part of a restructuring of the senior leadership team that oversees News Corporation’s media and entertainment properties, Peter Rice, most recently chairman of entertainment for Fox Networks Group (FNG), has been upped to chairman and CEO and will oversee all programming and operations for the group.

Fox Networks Group includes Fox Broadcasting Company, Fox Sports Media Group, FX, Fox International Channels and the National Geographic Channels.

As well, David Hill, most recently chairman of Fox Sports, has been upped to senior executive vice president, News Corporation. In his expanded LA-based role, Hill will focus on programming, digital initiatives and other opportunities, for the company’s operating units across Latin America, Asia, Australia, Europe and the U.S.

David Haslingden, president and COO of FNG; and Mike Hopkins, president of distribution for FNG, both of whom previously reported to News Corp. president and CEO Chase Carey, will now report to Rice.

Prior to his position with FNG, Rice was president of Fox Searchlight, and prior to that, was EVP of production for Twentieth Century Fox.

“The contributions that Peter has made to News Corporation over the years are immeasurable,” said Carey of Rice’s promotion. “Peter has proven himself at both the Fox Entertainment Networks, and Fox Searchlight before, to be one of the most innovative and strategic leaders in the entertainment industry.”

Prior to his post as chairman and CEO of Fox Sports, Hill had served as chairman and CEO of Fox Broadcasting Company from 1997 to 1999, and in 1993 was Fox Sports’ founding president.

Of Hill, Carey said, “David has proven himself to be one of the true visionaries in sports and entertainment across three continents during the last three decades and most recently has helped energize our National Geographic Channels. As we continue to grow our content brands across the world, David’s unique leadership and experience will be invaluable.”

Last month, News Corp. confirmed that it would split its film and television divisions from its publishing business into two distinct and publicly traded companies. The separation is expected to take a year to complete pending regulatory approval.

Tags: David Hill, Fox Networks Group, News Corporation, Peter Rice