Viacom promotes to fill Lynn role

Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) has promoted from within to replace David Lynn overseeing its channels in the UK and Europe.

James Currell

James Currell is stepping up to executive VP and MD for the UK and Northern and Eastern Europe.

Currell, who was previously chief operating officer (COO), replaces Lynn, who was promoted to oversee the whole VIMN business last week in the wake of Bob Bakish’s appointment as Viacom CEO.

Paul Dunthorne, currently COO at VIMN-owned UK terrestrial Channel 5, is now COO for VIMN in UK and Europe, reporting to Currell.

Currell will now manage VIMN businesses in 33 European countries, reporting to Lynn.

Lynn said: “James has been integral to the stellar growth of our operations managed out of the UK, both before and after our acquisition of Channel 5. He’s relentlessly strategic and inquisitive and has a fine understanding of the different needs of all our brands.”

Currell, who joined Viacom in 2001, said: “Viacom has transformed its UK presence and grown its footprint across Europe by increasing investment in quality local content and adopting an innovative approach to partnership and to the way our brands work together.”