A+E Networks has named Steve MacDonald President, Global Content Licensing & International, it was announced by Paul Buccieri, President, A+E Networks Group, to whom he will report.
In his new role, MacDonald will oversee the A+E Networks global multi-platform and library content licensing initiatives, as well as the company’s international activities.
“MacDonald is a highly accomplished sales executive who has been a major force behind many of the most innovative and revenue-rich media content transactions in the entertainment industry,” said Buccieri. “His innate talent for unearthing revenue potential within media assets is the precise skill we require as we continue to evolve our company.”
MacDonald, a 24-year veteran of Fox, joins A+E Networks from Twentieth Television. Most recently he was Executive Vice President, General Sales Manager, Basic Cable with oversight of Broadcast Syndication. During his tenure, he directed Twentieth Television’s revenue growth strategy, driving content licensing sales for the domestic off-net syndication distribution of sitcoms, dramas, reality, original programs and all library product. Additionally, he oversaw the premiere feature film and library window sales.
Among his countless accomplishments at Twentieth, MacDonald partnered across divisions to close several game-changing content and licensing deals. He masterminded a deal to revive Family Guy by working cross-divisionally to sell the series to TBS/Adult Swim while simultaneously releasing the show on DVD.
In addition, he led the team that devised the strategy to free up rights and reverse broadcast syndication exclusivity in order to sell the basic cable rights for The Simpsons franchise. He also negotiated the deal with USA Networks to acquire the rights to Modern Family, one of their largest acquisitions.
Patrick Vien, recently appointed Group Managing Director, International; and Mark Garner, Executive Vice President, Content Licensing and Business Development, will both be reporting to MacDonald.
