Former president of BBC worldwide networks, Jana Bennett, will be taking over at Bio and Lifetime Movie Network. Bennett was given the role by the new president and CEO of A&E network, Nancy Dubuc, who is not actually serving as president and CEO until June 1.
The Hollywood Reporter claims this will be the first move in attempting to build up A&E’s less popular cable networks. In addition to her experience with BBC, she has also spent time as executive vice president and general manager of TLC. During her time at TLC, Bennett was responsible for the hit home make-over series Trading Spaces as well as other British adoptions of television programs.
On whether or not these role adjustments will have major effects on the networks, “In her new role, Dubuc will oversee day-to-day operations of the company,” as stated by the Hollywood Reporter. Given this declaration, Dubuc was expected to make some changes when she was brought on as president and CEO of A&E.
According to Deadline, it is clear that there are some rebuilding plans in progress for the two networks Bennett will run, however the details have not been announced. C21Media reported, “Dubuc said the coming 12 months will see a concerted push to build H2, Bio and Lifetime Movie Network into a similar size as A&E, History and Lifetime.”
The H2 network, previously History International, has seen a 26 percent increase in ratings during the first quarter. This increase in viewers was among the 25-54 year old demographic, according to broadcastingcable.com.