Universal Networks hires for CEE growth

Universal Networks International (UNI) has appointed Tariq Syed as its first MD for Central Europe as it continues to build its international channel brands.

Syed, who moves across from NBC Universal International (NBCU International), will oversee the roll-out of UNI’s international pay-TV brands Diva Universal, Studio Universal, Syfy Universal, 13th Street Universal and Universal Channel, across Poland, Hungary, Romania, Czech Republic, Slovakia and the Balkans.

He will reports to Colin McLeod, MD for emerging markets EMEA, who said Syed’s “wealth of experience” would be “enormously beneficial in adding even more momentum for the delivery of UNI’s ambitious expansion plans in the emerging markets EMEA region.”

While at NBCU, Syed oversaw leading global mergers and acquisitions strategy, spearheading the buy-up of UK production companies Carnival Films and Monkey Kingdom. Aside from that, Syed’s CV includes stints at European mobile phone company O2 and Bear Stearns’ Telecoms Media and Technology Investment Banking team in London.

Syed said: “This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for me to join UNI’s vibrant emerging markets EMEA business and further accelerate its growth in the high-potential markets of Central Europe.”

UNI has been ramping up its efforts to establish its channel brands in Europe, appointing David Nunez as MD for Spain and Portugal in September.