National Geographic Channels International (NGCI) and Fox International Channels (FIC) announced the appointment of Karin Simoncini as managing director of NGCI and FIC in Australia and New Zealand. The appointment follows Ric Burns’ decision to return to retirement. Based at NGCI headquarters in Washington, DC since 2000, Simoncini has held key roles with the organisation. As vice president of regional programming and network development, Simoncini oversaw the strategic planning of NGCI content across all international markets and editorially supervised the global re-launch of Nat Geo Adventure. Prior to this, Simoncini was director business development, spearheading the expansion of the Channel’s Latin American operations. Of her focus in the new role, Simoncini said, “Increased local content is a priority for National Geographic Channel. With upcoming programs such as the Pirate Patrol series about the Australian Navy, there are exciting opportunities to work closely with local documentary makers, whilst at the same time increasing engagement with audiences and our platform partners.” “I’m thrilled to be joining the Australian and New Zealand team and look forward to growing our local presence in a number of ways, including the addition of new channels to NGCI and FIC’s existing suite,” Simoncini added. With over 16 years experience in the broadcast industry, Simoncini was previously head of programming at TV Quality, the leading local documentary channel in her native Argentina, where she was responsible for acquiring and commissioning factual programming.