A+E Networks has named Lifetime executive vice president and general manager Robert Sharenow the new EVP/GM of A&E Network.
The 15-year company veteran will now oversee all content creation, brand development and marketing for both network groups. Sharenow, who had been senior VP of non-fiction & alternative programming at A&E before becoming programming EVP at Lifetime in 2011, replaces David McKillop, who is stepping down to focus on producing, according to an internal company memo.
During his tenure at A&E, Sharenow developed or executive produced a number of the network's flagship series, including Intervention, Storage Warsand Hoarders.
In his new position with the network, he will report to Paul Buccieri, president, A&E and History, who announced the change in a memo to employees; in regard to Lifetime, where he became EVP/GM in June 2013 -- the same time McKillop became EVP/GM of A&E -- he will continue to report to A+E Networks president/CEO Nancy Dubuc.
The full text of Buccieri's memo follows:
Good morning everyone,
I have some news to share. I will be announcing in the press today that Rob Sharenow has been appointed Executive Vice President & General Manager, A&E and Lifetime.
After a successful twenty-five year career in television, David McKillop has made the decision to return to his roots as a producer. I would like to thank David for his extraordinary contributions to both A&E and History, where he is credited with evolving the brand and developing many hit series including; Pawns Stars, American Pickers and Swamp People. I know you all join me in wishing him continued success and are excited for him to share the details of his next venture soon. I hope his future producing endeavors find a home on A+E Networks.
After 10 years of tremendous growth – we have a renewed focus on re-establishing A&E as a top-tier brand. Rob is the ideal candidate for the job. Before his tenure at Lifetime, Rob was instrumental in the success of A&E for nearly a decade. He was a key member of A&E’s leadership team that developed some of the network’s biggest hit franchises. Under Rob’s leadership at Lifetime, the brand is undergoing a revitalization with a record number of Emmy nominations and returning series.
Rob is a great leader with the right balance of creative acumen and strategic vision, essential for today’s changing landscape. Rob will report to me for A&E and continue to report to Nancy, in regard to Lifetime, effective immediately. In his new role, Rob will oversee all content creation, brand development and marketing for both networks.
Please join me in wishing David well, and in congratulating Rob on his new role.
Best,
Paul
