BBC Worldwide appoints Perry Simon as GM

BBC Worldwide America has hired on Perry Simon, former NBC and Viacom exec, as general manager, channels for BBC Worldwide America. Simon will be responsible for the growth and creative direction of BBC America, BBC America HD, Video on Demand, BBCAmerica.com and future content distribution platforms. He takes up his role on September 7, will be located in New York and will report to Herb Scannell, president of BBC Worldwide America. Simon will also drive the programming, marketing and operations for BBC America, and commission original programming for the channel. Simon spent 13 years at NBC, where he was eventually the EVP of prime time programs, and spent 10 years as president of Viacom Productions. He also had his own production company, Shore View Entertainment. Most recently, Simon served as chief content officer at advanced television service provider Sezmi Corp and also served as special advisor to You Tube, Inc.