Discovery Communications has aligned its business operations across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and named a new leadership team headed by Kasia Kieli.
Kieli, who has been with the company for 17 years, has been promoted to president and MD of EMEA and will accelerate Discovery’s consumer and product-focused operating model across what is its biggest revenue region. By consolidating business units that were previously split into the UK, Nordics, Southern Europe and CEEMEA, one cohesive leadership team will be focused on optimising Discovery’s core business while driving new areas of growth.
Commenting on Kieli’s new role, Jean-Briac Perrette, CEO and president, Discovery Networks International, said: “Kasia has demonstrated great vision and determination with unmatched expertise in managing what is probably one of the most complex and diverse regions in the world. EMEA represents our largest region in terms of revenue as well as the focus of considerable investment in the past and big ambition for the future. I have no doubt that under Kasia’s strong and effective leadership, we will see our combined EMEA organisation continue to grow to new heights and in unimaginable ways.”
Kieli added: “I joined Discovery in 2000 because I loved the brand, believed in its values and saw the opportunities it was creating. I still share that very same excitement with millions of viewers who come to watch our programmes every day to be entertained, inspired, and amazed. After 17 years, my belief in Discovery is stronger than ever. It is an exhilarating time as we can now offer our fans so many new ways to engage with the content they love through multiple partnerships, platforms and devices.”
As part of the new operation, Kieli has announced a new leadership team for Discovery’s EMEA business including expanded responsibilities for Marinella Soldi and James Gibbons, who will both report to her in the new structure.
Soldi will take on an expanded role as chief strategy officer EMEA & MD Southern Europe, She will also create and lead a new Consumer Insights & Product Development function and the Content organisation for EMEA and Discovery Networks International.
Meanwhile, Gibbons has been appointed general manager UK/Ireland, Australia & New Zealand and head of commercial development EMEA. In his new role, Gibbons, who has been with Discovery for over 18 years, will manage the UK market.
He succeeds Susanna Dinnage, who was promoted to the newly created position of Global President, Animal Planet earlier this month.
