Scripps International has announced the appointment of Jonathan Sichel as its new UK-based MD.
Sichel, who joined Scripps in 2009 when it acquired Travel Channel in the United States, has been named managing director of the company’s operations in the United Kingdom and throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).
The UK-based operations include Food Network UK, Food Network South Africa, Fine Living Network and Travel Channel International, which the company acquired earlier this year.
Sichel will report to Bob Baskerville, chief international operating officer for Scripps Networks Interactive.
“Jonathan Sichel is a talented, thoughtful and intelligent media executive who fully understands the value of building powerful and distinctive lifestyle brands in the global marketplace,” said Jim Samples, president of international operations for Scripps Networks Interactive. “As we work toward achieving our ambitious international growth objectives, it’s imperative that we have leaders of Jonathan’s caliber in place to provide the highest level of creative, disciplined and inspiring leadership.”
Also in London, Nick Thorogood, has been a member of the Scripps Networks Interactive international team since 2010, has been named senior vice president of content and marketing for the UK and EMEA.
Sichel, 45, helped guide the integration of the US-based Travel Channel into Scripps Networks Interactive, serving as acting general manager of the business for a time after it was acquired by the company.
Thorogood joined Scripps from BBC Commercial Agency where he was head of factual, entertainment and formats. Earlier in his career he served as head of lifestyle channels at UKTV.
