ABC TV’s Phil Craig Named Discovery Networks International EVP, Chief Creative Officer

Craig, who will be based in London, begins his new role in February

Phil Craig Discovery

Phil Craig has been tapped for the dual role of executive vice president and chief creative officer at Discovery Networks International.

The now-former ABC TV (Australia) head of Factual will be based in London and begin his new job in February, when he will report to JB Perrette, president of Discovery Networks International. Prior to ABC TV, Craig worked for UK independent producer Nutopia, as well as the BBC. He’s also co-written five books.

The new chief creative officer title combines the roles of chief content officer, creative director, and head of Production and Development for Discovery Networks International. Luis Silberwasser and Julian Bellamy populated those roles previously.

Craig will lead the Production and Development group and its five locations: Silver Spring, New York, Miami, London and Singapore. He’ll develop non-fiction and lifestyle content primarily for Discovery Channel and TLC, as well as work with his U.S.-based colleagues on content sharing and development.

Rosemary Newell, DNI’s senior vice president of Programming and Content Operations, had led Craig’s new group in the interim phase. The DNI Production and Development group was established in 2011

“I’m thrilled that Phil Craig is joining us to lead DNI’s creative strategy and team. It is a hugely exciting time for the company, with international revenues now exceeding those in the U.S., and the incredible momentum of our international network portfolio which just delivered a third straight record quarter in viewership,” Perrette said.

“Great content is at the heart of that success and this role is critical for our plans to further grow brands, networks and audiences around the world. Phil has an impressive track record of creating hit series and nurturing great creative talent, which together with his unique global experience, makes him the perfect choice,” he concluded.

“Being offered this incredible job feels like re-connecting with a great friend,” Craig added. “10 years ago, Discovery asked me to make ‘The Flight That Fought Back.’ After that, I produced and executive produced many hours for Discovery Channel all over the world.”

“My first ambition is to lead with energy, imagination and passion,” he concluded. “I look forward to growing the business still further, in close collaboration with colleagues at the U.S. networks and across all the local and regional markets, as Discovery Networks International continues to establish itself as a world-leading commissioner of original, quality programming across all platforms.”

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