The National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications has named former Cablevision and CBS executive Eglon Simons as its new president.
Simons, who will begin on June 23, effectively replaces former president and CEO Nicol Turner-Lee, who resigned the position in July 2013. He takes over from interim president, Alicin Williamson.
Simons, who most recently retired from Cablevision Systems Corp. in 2011 after serving most recently as executive vice president of Cablevision’s Rainbow Advertising Sales Co. in 2002, is charged with overseeing the operations of the diversity-themed company. Simons also worked at CBS Television Stations Division in the 1980s.
“We are thrilled to welcome Eglon Simons, a proven industry veteran, as the new executive leader,” said Michael Armstrong, chair, NAMIC board and senior vice president and general manager, BET International and Paramount Channel, Viacom International Media Networks. “As our nation’s demographic landscape becomes increasingly diverse, the business acumen and vast managerial experience required to further NAMIC's mission within the communications industry is of the utmost importance. Under Eglon’s leadership, we look forward to achieving continued growth and expansion.”
Noted Simons: “NAMIC continues to be a standard-bearer for diversity and inclusion within the communications industry. As we move toward 35 years of service, the opportunity to lead the association and champion its mission is an honor. I look forward to working closely with the chapters and collaborating with NAMIC’s board, staff, chapter leadership and industry partners in building upon the association’s legacy of success.”
The move also comes as part of a NAMIC executive reorganization under Williamson’s tenure. James Jones, NAMIC’s vice president of education programs and diversity solutions, will take on the additional role of executive director for the NAMIC Foundation, a newly created senior management position, while Sandra Girado now serves as senior director of meetings and events.
Also, former manager of research Susan Waldman has been promoted to senior manager of research and publications, while Monique Wells has been promoted to senior manager of finance and administration.
“On behalf of the NAMIC board, we thank [Williamson's] commitment to advancing NAMIC’s mission," said Armstrong. “Alicin’s steady guidance and strategic leadership were invaluable during the association’s transition. Additionally, we thank NAMIC’s staff for the dedication that they have demonstrated while maintaining a high level of excellence in facilitating day to day operations."
