A+E Networks promotes Mark Garner to boost growth of FAST channels business

New York-headquartered A+E Networks has appointed Mark Garner to the newly created post of executive VP, head of global FAST (free, ad-supported streaming TV) channels.

Mark Garner

With the promotion, Garner, who previously served as exec VP of global content partnerships and business development, will be tasked with accelerating the growth of A+E’s FAST business in international markets, as well as building on its reach in the US. He will report to Steven MacDonald, president of global licensing and international.

A+E Networks was an early mover in the FAST space, launching its History Shorts channel in 2018 and growing its roster to more than 20 channels across lifestyle, competition, true crime and movies.

Garner has been with A+E for more than 20 years and in his previous role focused on monetising A+E Networks’ content through library partnerships and deals with emerging distribution platforms.

“As FAST continues to be a critical area for growth around the world, we are thrilled to announce the expansion of Mark’s role at A+E Networks,” said MacDonald.

“Under his leadership, A+E was an early entrant to the space, helping to monetise our vast library of owned and original content across an emerging fleet of digital and streaming platforms. With Mark at the helm, we will continue to build on our pioneering global position in FAST.”