Discovery Networks has appointed Dominic Coles, director of operations, BBC to the role of COO & CFO, Discovery Networks Western Europe.
He will work for Dee Forbes, president & MD of Western Europe and Doug Baker, COO/CFO Discovery Networks International.
Coles will be responsible for the operational and financial leadership of Discovery’s Western Europe business, consisting of 24 brands in 22 countries/territories including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Netherlands, broadcast in nine languages. The Western Europe business operates a unique hybrid pay-TV and free to air model in Europe and is a key growth region in Discovery Networks International.
Coles led BBC’s business operations for the past two years, prior to which COO of BBC Journalism, which included BBC News, BBC World Service and the BBC’s Nations and Regions. He took on these responsibilities in 2007 after seven years as COO and CFO of BBC Sport. Over a period of ten years, he was responsible for the BBC’s major sports rights acquisitions.
Coles replaces Yitz Shmulewitz, who becomes EVP & COO Eurosport, following the completion of Discovery’s 51% stake in the broadcaster.
Commenting on Coles’ appointment, Dee Forbes said: Dominic is a terrific business leader with strong expertise in the broadcast sector. The sports experience he obtained managing the BBC’s London 2012’s Olympic activities will also be invaluable to us as we align Eurosport’s assets with our own.
“The Western Europe business is on a big growth trajectory and we have major ambitions over the coming months and years. Dominic has a strong background in managing complex networks and business operations and I really look forward to welcoming him to Discovery and working closely with him to fulfill our plans.”
Meanwhile, Coles said: “After 17 memorable years, I will be leaving the BBC to join Discovery in October. I have been lucky to have worked with some truly inspirational leaders during my time at the BBC and to have helped lead talented teams. However, the opportunity to join Discovery at such an exciting time in their history was simply too good to ignore and I’m looking forward to working with Dee Forbes and the Discovery Western Europe team to help continue their remarkable growth of recent years.”
