Los Angeles – Ward Platt has been named Chief Operating Officer of FOX International Channels (FIC) and Chief Executive Officer of the unit’s National Geographic Channels International (NGCI).  Making the announcement was Hernan Lopez, President and CEO of FIC, to whom Platt will continue to report.

Platt, who previously served as President, Asia Pacific and the Middle East for FIC will relocate to Los Angeles and will work across areas in the execution of FIC’s continuing growth plans around the world. Additionally, as CEO for NGCI, he will oversee international programming, marketing, operations, syndication and finance for the National Geographic Channels outside of the U.S. Currently, the channel and its brand extensions are seen in 171 countries.

Prior to taking on this new role Platt oversaw 18 FIC offices throughout Asia Pacific and the Middle East from his base in Hong Kong.  He and his team were responsible for all aspects of running 129 FOX-branded and operated channels, including programming, local productions, on-air promotion, marketing, advertising sales, affiliate sales/distribution, legal and business affairs and finance.  Most recently, Platt led the integration of FOX Sports Asia (formerly ESS) into FIC, as well as the launch of FOX Sports Japan, the largest entry by a non-Japanese brand into the local sports TV market.

“It’s been a privilege to be part of a team of amazing people that have built FIC Asia into what it is today,” said Platt.  “FIC as a company is incredibly dynamic with a ‘can do’ culture and I am grateful for this opportunity to continue working alongside my colleagues to help Hernan take the FOX International Channels and National Geographic Channels International businesses to new heights.”