Scripps Networks restructures UK operations

July 26, 2012 by Kelly Anderson

Jonathan Sichel has been promoted to managing director of Scripps Networks Interactive’s operations in the UK and EMEA, while Nick Thorogood has been named senior vice president of content and marketing for the UK and EMEA.

As managing director, Sichel will oversee the day-to-day operations of the company’s UK-based operations, which include Food Network UK, Food Network South Africa, Fine Living Network and Travel Channel International, as well as the company’s operations in EMEA.

He will be tasked with expanding channel distribution on television and digital platforms, developing the company’s lifestyle media brands throughout the regions, and increasing viewership and revenues. Sichel will report to Bob Baskerville, chief international operating officer for Scripps Networks Interactive.

He has been with the company since 2009 when Scripps acquired Travel Channel in the U.S., where he served as acting general manager of the network.

Prior to that, he was senior vice president of commercial affairs and operations for Travel Channel, and vice president of business affairs for Discovery Communications.

“Jonathan Sichel is a talented, thoughtful and intelligent media executive who fully understands the value of building powerful and distinctive lifestyle brands in the global marketplace,” said Jim Samples, president of international operations for Scripps Networks Interactive.

Meanwhile, London-based Thorogood will oversee content development and strategy, as well as associated programming and marketing activities for the company’s channels in the UK and EMEA.  He will also help as the company pursues channel development opportunities in other key territories, including Asia and Latin America.

Thorogood was most recently managing director, Food Network EMEA, where he oversaw the launch and development of the Food Network in the UK and other markets within the EMEA territory.

“[Thorogood] has all the right instincts, a strong background in global media and is a fervent advocate of our brand of lifestyle programming and its inherent popularity with fans in the UK and beyond. We’re fortunate to have Nick on the team,” said Samples.

Tags: Jonathan Sichel, Nick Thorogood, Scripps Networks Interactive