Burns to leave Nat Geo

National Geographic Channel is saying goodbye to its executive VP of global content Steve Burns, the man behind the US cable network’s first Oscar nomination.

Burns (left), the channel’s president Steve Schiffman told staff today, will be leaving sometime in the next few weeks. He will be replaced on an interim basis by senior VP of production Michael Cascio.

Schiffman emphasised that it was business as usual for the channel, despite Burns’ departure. “We continue to evaluate and approve new projects, with Bridget Hunnicutt leading the global development team,” he told staff.

“Heather Moran will continue to spearhead global scheduling and strategy, and Char Serwa will continue to oversee global production. We are fully committed to the shows in the pipeline.”

Burns’ credits at Nat Geo include Afghan war doc Restrepo, which garnered the net its first Oscar nomination, and he recently greenlit Civil Warriors (3×60′) to mark the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War this year.

The former Discovery exec’s exit comes soon after the arrival of former Fox LOOK president David Lyle as head of a new West Coast development office at National Geographic Channel.

“As for Steve’s next step, he is undecided yet as to his next adventure, but I am confident his formidable creative talents will remain a force within the industry,” added Schiffman.