Ovation readies for OTT growth with senior promotions

Ovation has promoted several key executives in advance of the expansion of its OTT services and new programming initiatives.

The move comes at a pivotal time in the network’s evolution, as it builds on its linear channel’s success with premium arts-focused drama series like the upcoming season three premiere of Versailles, as well as continued growth and expansion of its live-streaming app Ovation NOW and digital cultural travel network, Journy.

Overseeing Ovation’s OTT initiatives is Will Marks, who has been promoted to senior VP of business development and digital. He will lead all new business development and partnership opportunities for the network.

Marks has also been responsible for the launches and expansion of Ovation NOW and Journy.

The network has also elevated Erica Henry to vice president of acquisitions, scheduling and programme planning. Henry has been responsible for securing content rights for Ovation’s linear and OTT services from programme producers and distirbutors worldwide.

Edward Forman has been promoted to senior director of ad sales. He has been a member of the ad sales team since 2007. Jessica Yas Barker has been promoted to senior director where she will oversee the company’s arts advocacy efforts.

“Ovation continues to be an agile independent network that has been able to adapt and respond to the changing media landscape. Our staying power and success has been a result of the outstanding team we have in place,” said Phil Gilligan, CFO at Ovation.

“I’m delighted to announce these promotions and our new marketing manager and look forward to seeing the next phase of the company’s evolution unfold. These are exciting times for Ovation, and we are poised to take advantage of the multitude of opportunities available today.”