Mark Kern is headed back to Hallmark.

 

Kern, a veteran TV publicist (and one of the good guys), has been named senior VP of communications and media relations for Crown Media Holdings-- the parent company of Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel.

 

In a past life, Kern was the founding PR chief for Hallmark Channel. His new gig has him reporting to William Abbott, president and CEO of Crown.

 

Kern's "understanding of the evolving media landscape, his broad-based media relationships and his insights and savvy about the television business make him a major asset for us," Abbott said.

 

Until recently, Kern was out on his own as an indie PR consultant, with clients such as Ovation, Reelz, the Hatchery and Broadway Video. His resume includes a stint as one of the early VPs of publicity for the Fox network.

 

Nancy Carr remains head of corporate communications while Pam Slay stays as head of program publicity.