The Fox Networks Group has appointed a new president and chief operating officer. The company announced today that it has promoted Randy Freer to the post, B&C reports.

Freer, who was co-president and chief operating officer of Fox Sports Media Group, will oversee revenue, distribution and operations for FNG, while also retaining his responsibilities for sports rights acquisitions. Eric Shanks will become sole president of Fox Sports Media Group after being co-president with Freer.

B&C reports: "In connection with the appointment, the following executives will now report to Freer: Michael Biard, president, distribution, Fox Networks; Toby Byrne, president, national ad sales, Fox Broadcasting Company, FSMG; Lou LaTorre, president, advertising sales, Fox Cable Entertainment Networks, Fox Hispanic Media Group; and Kyle Sherman, executive VP, Home Team Sports."

Company Chairman and CEO Peter Rice said: "Randy is an outstanding executive and having played a key role in growing our powerhouse television sports business, he brings impressive skills as both an operator and builder of businesses. He will be a key partner for me in overseeing and driving continued growth of our global channels business, which spans nearly 400 channels in 200 countries."

Randy Freer