Christina Spade Will Take Over as AMC Networks’ CEO

variety.com:

Brian Steinberg Senior TV EditorChristina Spade, a veteran media executive who was previously chief financial officer of the former ViacomCBS, has been named the new chief executive of AMC Networks, tasked with leading the small but influential media company through a tricky time in the media business.She replaces Matt Blank, a Showtime veteran who had been serving as the company’s interim CEO, and will assumer her new responsibilities on Sept.

9.“I’m delighted that Chris is taking over as our new CEO,” said James Dolan, AMC Networks’ chairman, in a statement. “She is a proven leader with a long track record driving transformative change in media and entertainment and I am confident she has the expertise and vision to guide AMC Networks to greater success.” Patrick O’Connell, previously a senior executive at CBS Corporation and Goldman Sachs, has been named the company’s new executive vice president, a d chief financial officer, and will report to Spade.

Spade will take up the company’s reins as it has been working to ramp up its broadband and streaming activities. While best known for premium TV dramas like “Better Call Saul” and “The Walking Dead,” AMC Networks has been diligently launching broadband businesses in past months.

Its streaming portfolio includes AMC+ and venues aimed at specific audience niches including Acorn TV, ALLBLK, HIDIVE, Shudder and Sundance Now.