Jean-Briac (J.B.) Perrette has been promoted to the newly created position of president of NBC Universal Digital Distribution.

He’ll be responsible for TV content across platforms including interactive TV, wireless, on-demand, IPTV and other digital platforms. He also will be lead content discussions with Internet portals, wireless carriers, emerging digital companies, and other nontraditional customers.

The appointment, one of a number of realignments in the weeks since the exit of three key NBCU TV executives, takes effect immediately. The announcement was made Tuesday by NBCU Television Group CEO Jeff Zucker and Digital Media and Market Development President Beth Comstock.

Mr. Perrette also will lead strategic partnerships and assume responsibility for cable investments (managed by NBCU Cable Investments President Douglas Holloway), a capacity in which he will report to Mr. Zucker. As part of the digital unit, Mr. Perrette will report to Chief Digital Officer George Kliavkoff.

Reporting to Mr. Perrette will be New Media Distribution VP Michael Bonner, Wireless VP Salil Dalvi, New Media Distribution VP Michael Bonner and VOD Marketing VP Stacy Melle.

Mr. Perrette and his team will work closely with Universal Studios Home Entertainment President Craig Kornblau, who will continue to oversee NBC Universal’s electronic sell-through and VOD distribution of film content with Internet portals, emerging digital companies and nontraditional customers, as well as with Television Networks Distribution President Bridget Baker, who oversees digital distribution activities with cable, satellite and telco customers,

Since joining NBC in 2000 as a business development executive, Mr. Perrette has been CFO of Bravo, CFO of NBCU Cable and, most recently, senior VP of New Media Distribution.

“J.B.’s expertise in this area, and proven track record, will allow us to move even faster. And our new organization, organized around customers, provides real clarity as we move forward,” Mr. Zucker said.

“J.B. brings impressive ability and insight to these expanded responsibilities,” said Ms. Comstock. “He will play an important role in helping NBC Universal navigate a landscape of emerging technology, diverse economic models and strategic partnerships.”



(Editor: Gilbert)