The Oprah Winfrey Network has named Nicole Nichols senior vice president, communications and strategy.
In her new role with OWN, Nichols will serve as chief spokeswoman and develop and implement internal and external communications strategies for the multiplatform venture. Nichols joins OWN from Disney/ABC Television Group, where she most recently served as senior vice president, entertainment communications.
Nichols, who will report to OWN president Robin Schwartz, will oversee all media relations efforts and corporate reputation management, and lead the creation and implementation of strategies to promote individual network programming, business initiatives, brand visibility and growth.
“One of the most respected communications professionals in the industry, Nicole brings a diverse set of skills to OWN, which range from an unparalleled strategic vision to a remarkable talent for implementing a strong corporate image, all of which will be invaluable to our mission,” said Schwartz in a statement. “Nicole shares our goal to make OWN a multiplatform venture designed to empower, entertain and uplift.”
At Disney/ABC Television Group, Nichols has served since 2005 as senior vice president, entertainment communications, responsible for strategic communications efforts for five business units in the television group: ABC Entertainment, ABC Daytime, ABC Studios, ABC Family and SoapNet. From 2002 through 2005 she was vice president, corporate communications and publicity, ABC Family. Before that, she held various corporate communications and public relations positions at Fox Family Worldwide, leading public relations efforts for Fox Family Channel and Fox Kids Network.
She previously worked as director of publicity for Saban Entertainment, developing all campaigns for Saban’s children’s series.
