Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) announced the appointment of Pierluigi Gazzolo as president of its Americas division, giving him responsibility for its operations across Latin America, Canada and the US Hispanic market (Tr3s). Gazzolo, who has been acting as interim Managing Director for VIMN Americas since July, in addition to his role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of VIMN, will move from New York to Miami to take up the Americas role on a dedicated basis reporting to VIMN president and CEO, Bob Bakish. In his new role, Gazzolo will provide leadership for one of VIMNs most important business divisions, spanning operations in markets across the Americas division including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Canada and US Hispanic (Tr3s). He will oversee the ongoing expansion of VIMNs portfolio of TV channels, including todays launch of the Paramount Channel in the region, as well as increased investment in original local productions for MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central branded networks. VIMN is also growing its non-linear presence in the region through innovative multiplatform products and services such as the Nick App and My Nick Jr. In addition, Gazzolo will retain his role as the Nickelodeon brand lead for all markets outside of the U.S., with its centralized Programming, Marketing, Creative, Consumer Products and International Program Sales teams continuing to report to him. The search for Gazzolos replacement as COO is currently underway. Pier has been an outstanding leader within our business for a number of years, and Im thrilled he will now be focusing his talent and experience on the vitally important role of overseeing the Americas business full-time, said Bakish.
