Food Network President Brooke Johnson to Retire

Food Network and the Cooking Channel better have a new boss rising in their executive ovens: Brooke Johnson, president of Scripps Networks Interactive food lifestyle brands, is retiring after more than 12 years with the company.

She will remain a consultant through the end of 2016, however, the company said on Wednesday when announcing her departure.

“An announcement regarding the leadership of Food Network moving forward will be made in the coming days,” Scripps Networks channel said in a statement.

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Under her umbrella, Johnson supervised the creation of hugely successful programming franchises including “Chopped”, “Cutthroat Kitchen”, “Food Network Star” and “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” During her tenure, Food Network also expanded into branded products and launched “Food Network Magazine.”

“Brooke Johnson has been one of the key driving forces behind the success of Food Network since she joined the company,” said Kenneth W. Lowe, chairman, president and chief executive officer, Scripps Networks Interactive. “Food Network touches hundreds of millions of consumers every month, through shows including ‘Food Network Star’ and ‘Guy’s Grocery Games’ and through its many brand extensions.”

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“We’re very grateful to Brooke for her passion and hard work in building one of the strongest media brands around, and I’m gratified that the company will continue to benefit from her expertise and insight in a consultative capacity,” he continued.

“I couldn’t be more proud of everything that the team and talented chefs and hosts have created and accomplished together during my time here,” added Johnson. “The timing was right for me to step back and enjoy the next phase of my life, but I leave with total confidence that Food Network and Cooking Channel will continue to grow and engage fans of these beloved brands for many years to come.”