Robert Mills has been named head of ABC’s Alternative Series, Specials & Late-Night Programming.
The now-senior vice president and former vice president already occupied the position on an interim basis, replacing former Executive Vice President Lisa Berger, who lasted just one year. In the role, Mills will lead development, current production and specials for ABC’s alternative series and report directly to Paul Lee, President, ABC Entertainment Group.
At the time, Berger said of her early departure: “In the end we found our creative sensibilities weren’t aligned.”
On making Mills her permanent replacement, Lee said: “Rob is a passionate and creative executive with strong leadership skills. His instincts and unparalleled knowledge of pop culture are certain to help invigorate our fantastic reality team.”
Mills has overseen production on “Shark Tank,” “Dancing with the Stars” and “The Taste,” among other reality shows. He was also in charge of network special events, including the “American Music Awards,” the “CMA Awards,” “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest,” “The Billboard Awards” and the upcoming 87th Academy Awards.
Prior to joining the ABC alternative department in 2003, Mills began his career as an assistant in the Alternative Department at CAA.