Viacom rejigs Networks group

Viacom has rejigged its Viacom Media Networks group, which will see Kevin Kay, the president of Paramount Network, TV Land and CMT depart.

Effective immediately, VMN will consist of four brand groups: Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land; MTV, VH1, CMT and Logo and BET Networks and Nickelodeon as stand-alone groups.

The Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land group will be led by president Ken Alterman and Chris McCarthy will expand his current role of president of MTV, VH1 and Logo to include CMT.

Alterman and McCarthy will continue to report to CEO Bob Bakish. There are no changes to BET Networks or Nickelodeon.

With these changes, Kay will step down as president of Paramount Network, TV Land and CMT after a transition period. Kay has overseen a strong set of hits for the Network including Kenan & Kel and Lip Sync Battle.

Kay was also behind the team that launched Paramount Network in January 2018.

“These changes mark the next step in the ongoing evolution of our company as we continue to ensure we’re making the most of our great assets and resources, and operating as nimbly and efficiently as we can,” said Bakish.

“Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land share an original content strategy anchored in scripted programming, and CMT – with its deep roots in music and unscripted programming – is a natural partner for MTV and VH1. Kent and Chris have been driving forces behind Viacom’s flagship strategy, re-energizing and growing two of our most iconic brands, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.”