Craig Paterson and Monde Twala elevated to lead ViacomCBS Networks Africa As Alex Okosi Takes A Bow
ViacomCBS Networks International (VCNI) announced today that following the departure of veteran media executive, Alex Okosi, Craig Paterson and Monde Twala will be named as co-General Managers of ViacomCBS Networks Africa.
Alex Okosi will be taking a bow from his role as the Executive Vice President and Managing Director of VCN Africa and BET International at the end of February 2020.
Speaking about his contribution to ViacomCBS and media business in Africa, Raffaele Annecchino, President of ViacomCBS Networks Europe Middle East, Africa, and Asia had this to say: “Alex has made an immeasurable impact on our business in Africa.”
“Since launching MTV Base in 2005, Alex has spearheaded the development of our business on the continent, which now delivers more channels to Africa than any other international network – reaching 100 million viewers in 48 territories across MTV, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, and BET.”
Okosi took over leadership of BET International in 2017 and has continued to advance the value of the brand internationally delivering double-digit distribution growth and improving profitability and margins. Under Okosi’s leadership, BET International elevated its presence at the BET Awards by incorporating the “Best International Act” award into the live broadcast, which simulcasted live in Africa for the first time. In addition, BET International expanded its presence during the BET “Hip Hop Awards” by launching a new category to honor artists from around the world.
“I am proud to have had the opportunity to build our Africa business from the ground up,” said Okosi.
“This has played a pivotal role in transforming the music and content space and changing the narrative on Africa.
David Lynn, President & CEO of ViacomCBS Networks International added, “I’m immensely grateful to Alex for his contribution to the success of VCNI, including his role in developing such a strong team of successors. Alex’s leadership has been essential to our success in Africa and to the continued growth of BET International.”
Effective March 1, 2020, Monde Twala and Craig Paterson will assume their new roles as General Managers of VCN Africa.
As co-head of the business, Twala, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Editorial VCN Africa, will focus on content, creative, editorial and marketing across all VCNI brands.
Paterson, Senior Vice President & General Manager, VCN Africa, will be responsible for all corporate functions, including business development and strategy. He’ll be responsible for driving strategic growth and business opportunities in Africa.
