DIRECTV announced today that after more than six years of successfully
leading its programming acquisition, original content, regional sports
networks and ad sales groups, Derek Chang will leave his position as
executive vice president of Content Strategy and Development at the end
of the year. Succeeding him will be Dan York, former president of
Content and Advertising Sales for AT&T, who will join DIRECTV
in early July as executive vice president of Programming, and Chief
Content Officer.
York, who will report to Mike White, chairman, president and CEO of
DIRECTV, will initially lead DIRECTV’s efforts in programming and
content rights, and then oversee the content and ROOT Sports teams as
Chang transitions out of his role at year-end.
“I want to thank Derek for his tremendous leadership over the years in
establishing DIRECTV as the very best in content highlighted by
DIRECTV's preeminent position in HD and its continued superiority in
sports programming," said White. "We understand Derek's desire to take
his career in a different direction but I personally appreciate his
advice and guidance during my own entry into the industry and his
willingness to work with me on a thoughtful transition over the course
of this year."
"I am extremely proud to have been part of such a tremendous team and
such great successes at DIRECTV,” said Chang. “Under Mike's leadership I
am confident that the company will continue to perform at the highest
levels in this industry."
White added, “While we’re sorry to see Derek leave, I’m delighted that
after an extensive search both inside and outside the company, we have
selected someone of Dan York’s talent and ability to replace Derek. Dan
brings an extraordinary breadth of experience to DIRECTV, from helping
to build the AT&T U-verse video platform from the ground up to
successfully managing all aspects of the content business including
distribution, marketing and acquisition of linear, VOD, PPV and sports
programming. I know Dan will ably continue Derek’s legacy of strong,
imaginative content leadership.”
“I’m looking forward to working with Derek and his programming group,
who I have long admired for their tenacity and creative thinking,” said
York.