Formally UK director of programming at NBC Universal, in his new post at Nick, Newton will be responsible for developing the scheduling and editorial strategy for the network across its seven specialty channels, as well as on-demand and digital platforms.
The 20-year industry veteran, who has worked with TV brands such as The Walt Disney Company (Disney Channel), UKTV (Gold), E!, Syfy, Universal Channel and Comedy Central, begins his new role with Nickelodeon on Monday 18th April 2016.
The job had been previously split between Alison Bakunowich, who recently became General Manager (GM) of Nickelodeon UK & Ireland in March following Tina McCann's exit, and VP Alan Musa, upon the departure of VP and director of programming, Tim Patterson, last August. Newton will report directly to Bakunowich.
"James understands Nickelodeon and the innovation required to retain and build our audience in the age of multiple screens and content proliferation," said Bakunowich.
"His broad experience and the successful strategies that he has led in previous positions will be of great benefit to the network."
Newton's appointment follows the recent promotion of 25-year Nickelodeon veteran Lee Ann Chmielewski-Larsen to Executive Vice President (EVP) of production at Viacom Kids and Family Group, as well as four senior management appointments at Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) across Southern Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia and two at VIMN's Canadian office.
Nickelodeon UK & Ireland, which offers top quality shows such as SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Dora the Explorer, has been the top-performing UK cable or satellite channel for the past six months, according to BARB ratings.
Sources: Kidscreen, TBI Vision.
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