CBS names SVOD content chief, studio dev chief

US subscription on-demand platform CBS All Access is set to ramp up programming activity after appointing an original content chief.

CBS Television Studio’s head of drama, Julie McNamara is moving across to its CBS sister to become executive VP, original content.

Senior VP, drama development at CBS Entertainment Bryan Seabury will replace her at the LA-based studio, it was confirmed last night. He will report to CBS TV Studios president David Stapf.

The creation of a content chief role at CBS All Access comes after the platform commissioned Star Trek and The Good Wife spin-offs. Numerous other originals are expected on the platform, as CBS attempts to attract millennial audiences and cord-cutters.

McNamara, who’s been with CBS TV Studios for a decade, will report to Stapf and CBS Digital Media and CBS Interactive EVP and general manager Marc DeBevoise.

She has developed and overseen CBS series such as The Good Wife, Elementary, Scorpion, Under the Dome and Madam Secretary, and CW shows including Jane the Virgin.

Before CBS, she was VP, drama at ABC, where she developed Alias, Desperate Housewives and Grey’s Anatomy.

“Julie has been one of the industry’s preeminent drama development executives for more than a decade,” said Stapf. “Her taste, business savvy and deep relationships with the creative community will serve her and CBS All Access well as we move forward with more marquee premium content for subscribers.

“As a studio, we’re very excited to expand into this space, and even more excited to do so with a dedicated executive of Julie’s caliber.”

The appointment also closely follow’s Jim Lanzone’s promotion to chief digital officer at CBS Corp., which houses the CBS broadcast channel, the studio and the SVOD platform.