Discovery Communications CEO David Zaslav, who has overseen the growing collection of cable networks since 2007, will remain in the top position until the end of the decade. The company extended his contract through Dec. 31, 2019.
During his tenure, Zaslav has helped Discovery grow into a global brand with over 200 networks internationally, reports TheWrap. The networks have over 2.2 billion subscribers worldwide and the company most recently acquired SBS Nordics. He also worked with Oprah Winfrey to launch her OWN Network, which has featured the former talk show host’s exclusive interviews with celebrities.
“David has done a superb job,” Discovery director John Malone said in a statement. Malone praised Zaslav for building “a strong management team that has expanded the company’s reach and relevance, increased its market share domestically and around the world, and created a bigger, stronger portfolio of brands. We look forward to working with David to do more of the same over the next six years.”
The Hollywood Reporter notes that Zaslav’s base salary will be $3 million a year, as disclosed in an SEC filing, plus bonuses.
“I want to thank Discovery's visionary board of directors, best-in-class management team, our advertising and affiliate partners, and all of the passionate viewers around the world,” Zaslav said in a statement.
Aside from OWN, Discovery’s other brand names include Investigation Discovery, Velocity and Destination America, plus the flagship Discovery Channel.
image: Wikimedia Commons
