Ted Harbert is leaving NBCUniversal after spending five years as chairman of NBC Broadcasting, TheWrap has learned.
In his role as chairman, Harbert reported directly to NBCU CEO Steve Burke and oversaw local syndication ad sales, the NBC Owned television stations, affiliate relations, network research, domestic television distribution, NBCUniversal Digital Entertainment and special events.
Harbert will officially depart the company on October 14, and NBC Sports Group chairman Mark Lazarus will take over as head of NBC Broadcasting and Sports. George Cheeks and Paul Telegdy of NBC Entertainment will assume responsibility for NBC’s first-run syndication business, and Jeff Bader will be responsible for the Broadcast Research Group.
Also taking on new roles in the executive shuffle are Kevin MacLellan, who has been named chairman, global distribution and international, adding domestic TV and new media to his purview, and Maggie McLean Suniewick, who will become president of NBCUniversal digital enterprises.
Previously, Harbert served as president and CEO of Comcast Entertainment Group, where he oversaw E!, Style and G4, as well as Comcast International Media Group, Comcast Entertainment Productions and CEG’s digital properties.
Prior to that, the executive held positions at NBC Studios and spent the first 20 years of his career at ABC.
Read Harbert’s statement below:
Wanted you to hear this directly from me before it’s released to the press in a few minutes:
This Sunday marks the end of my 40th season in television. I think that’s plenty for now, so I’ve decided to leave NBC as of October 14th. I’m staying an extra month to ensure orderly transitions and continue the launch of our terrific new Harry Connick, Jr. syndicated show.
When I joined NBC in February 2011 there was room for significant improvement. Five years later, thanks to the incredible work of all of our great teams, we are reporting record results. Simply put, my work is here done.
The proverbial next chapter lies ahead and I’m happy to say I have no idea what it is. I’ve never known the unknown and I’ve never taken more than two and a half weeks off since I was 16 years old…now I will. Let’s hope I make it until January.
I’ve loved working at 30 Rock and with all the great people here. I’m eternally grateful to Steve Burke for the opportunity to work for the last 12 years, first at Comcast’s Entertainment networks and then here at NBC. It’s been a truly incredible adventure.
Thank you all so much.
Ted