Discovery Channel has selected Joseph LaPolla to be its new director of programming. In his new role, LaPolla will oversee all of Discovery Channel’s scheduling and acquisition functions. He also will work closely with the senior management team in developing and executing Discovery Channel’s programming strategies. Mr. LaPolla formerly was VP of program planning and acquisitions at A&E and VP of acquisitions, scheduling and digital programming at the History Channel. Mr. LaPolla has executive produced more than 100 hours of programming for the History Channel and was responsible for overseeing the network’s co-production work with the BBC. He assisted in the launch of the History Channel in the United Kingdom with BSkyB. Mr. LaPolla also has served as program planning and acquisition consultant for USA Cable’s emerging networks and the Outdoor Life Network.