Randy Freer has been promoted to president and chief operating officer of Fox Networks Group.
He will report to chairman and chief executive officer Peter Rice. Freer previously served as co-president and COO of FOX Sports Media Group. in his new role, he will oversee revenue, distribution and operations while continuing his responsibilities in rights acquisitions and team and league relationships.
Also read: News Corp. Promotes Peter Rice, David Hill
FNG includes FOX Broadcasting Company, FOX Sports, FX Networks, Fox International Channels and National Geographic Channels.
“Randy is an outstanding executive and having played a key role in growing our powerhouse television sports business, he brings impressive skills as both an operator and builder of businesses,” said Rice. “He will be a key partner for me in overseeing and driving continued growth of our global channels business which spans nearly 400 channels in 200 countries.”
Also read: Seth MacFarlane’s ‘Dads’ Gets Full Season Order From Fox
Added Freer, “The Fox Networks Group has a portfolio of channels and hit content that is unrivaled and connects with viewers, advertisers and distributors the world over. I’m excited to be able to work with Peter and the incredible team to build on FNG’s global leadership.”
Eric Shanks, who ran Fox Sports Media Group alongside Mr. Freer, will assume sole responsibility for the group as its President and COO and report to Rice. Also continuing to report to Rice will be John Landgraf, CEO of FX Networks and FX Productions; Hernan Lopez, president and CEO of Fox International Channels; David Lyle, CEO of National Geographic Channels US and Global Programming; and Kevin Reilly, chairman of Entertainment for FOX Broadcasting Company.
Those who will now report to Freer include Michael Biard, president of distribution for Fox Networks; Toby Byrne, president of national ad sales for FOX Broadcasting Company and FOX Sports Media Group; Lou LaTorre, president of advertising sales for Fox Cable Entertainment Networks and Fox Hispanic Media Group; and Kyle Sherman, executive vice president of Home Team Sports. FNG finance and business development, corporate communications, legal and human resources functions will report jointly to Mr. Rice and Mr. Freer.