Viacom extends Frank's research role to film and books

by Staff,, Brand Republic 29-Nov-04

NEW YORK - Viacom has promoted its chief researcher Betsy Frank to the new role of executive vice-president of research and planning, extending her responsibilities from MTV Networks and Viacom's cable operations to its film and publishing divisions.

Frank, a former executive at Publicis Groupe's Zenith Media as was, will develop research strategies for cable networks MTV, Showtime and BET, as well as film studio Paramount Pictures and publishing house Simon & Schuster.

The new appointment coincides with the expanded remit of Tom Freson as co-president and co-chief operating officer, who now also looks after Viacom's film and publishing divisions.

Frank will report directly to Freson and Judy McGrath, chairman and chief executive officer of MTV Networks.

Freson said of her appointment: "Frank's work has played a huge factor in the phenomenol success of MTV Networks. It's a great opportunity now to take Betsy's experience and share it with other divisions in my portfolio."

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