A&E builds unscripted team with Tappon promotion

US cable channel A&E has upped Drew Tappon to the post of senior VP, development and programming.

In the new role, Tappon will be responsible for developing and producing A&E’s non-fiction, alternative and reality series, reporting into the network’s executive VP and general manager David McKillop.

Last month, A&E poached VH1 exec Shelly Tatro, who took on a similarly titled role as senior VP, unscripted development and programming.

Tappon has been with Disney- and Hearst-owned A+E Networks since 2011, and before this week’s promotion was VP, non-fiction and alternative programming.

He is credited with developing series such as Wahlburgers and smash hit Duck Dynasty.

“Drew is a talented and well-respected executive who has brought enormous energy and experience to A&E’s unscripted programming team,” said McKillop. “I am certain that he will continue to reinforce A&E’s standing as a leader in providing premium content and contribute to the growth of the network.”

Tappon previously worked at Warner Horizon Television and before that spent 12 years at MTV.