Peter Rice upped in News Corp executive shake-up

News Corp has promoted Peter Rice to chairman and chief executive of Fox Networks Group, giving him control of the company’s Fox Sports division and the National Geographic Channel. This comes as the company has also promoted David Hill, longtime chairman of Fox Sports, to senior vice president, News Corp, where he will look after international television programming.

Rice, who was previously chairman of entertainment, Fox Networks Group, will now be responsible for sports programming and factual content across the company in addition to his role overseeing US broadcast network Fox, cable network FX and Fox International Channels.

Hill’s new role will see him focus on television programming and digital initiatives across Europe, Latin America, Asia and Australia as well as the US.

As part of the move, David Haslingden, president and chief operating officer, Fox Networks Group, and Mike Hopkins, president of distribution, Fox Networks Group, will both report to Rice. Previously, the pair reported directly to Chase Carey, president and chief operating officer, News Corp. Kevin Reilly, president of entertainment for Fox Broadcasting Company, and John Landgraf, president and GM of FX, will continue to report to Mr. Rice.

“The contributions that Peter has made to News Corporation over the years are immeasurable. Peter has proven himself at both the Fox Entertainment Networks, and Fox Searchlight before, to be one of the most innovative and strategic leaders in the entertainment industry,” said Carey.