Viacom announced that Judy McGrath is resigning from her position as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of its MTV Networks division. No successor will be named. McGrath, who began her career with the company as a copywriter at MTV in 1981, was named Chairman and CEO of MTV Networks in July 2004.
“The people of MTV Networks have always been singularly important to me. Together we have built world-class brands that connect with fans from kid to adulthood, from SpongeBob to Hot In Cleveland, from Unplugged to The Daily Show. We have attracted and nurtured the best talent in the world, and I know that will always be a hallmark of the company. Creatively, financially, all the brands and businesses are in wonderful shape today. I leave with pride, joy and gratitude for the ride of a lifetime. I especially thank my friends and colleagues on the senior team, who will continue to lead a kick-ass organization. They have my respect and affection, always,” McGrath said in a statement.
With the departure of McGrath, the executives in charge of MTV Networks’ operating units: Doug Herzog, President, MTVN Entertainment Group; Van Toffler, President, MTVN Music & Logo Group; and Cyma Zarghami, President, Nickelodeon & MTVN Kids & Family Group, will report directly to Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman.