Ex-IFC Exec Ruggiero to Starz Encore

Michael Ruggiero has joined Starz Entertainment Group LLC as vice president, programming and scheduling.

Ruggiero had held the same title at The Independent Film Channel.

At Starz, he will oversee strategic program and promotion scheduling for the seven Encore channels, along with development and creation of original programming for the programmer’s Starz and Encore channels.

He reports to VP of program and promotion scheduling for scheduling and promotions Jonathan Shair and senior VP of programming for original productions Stephan Shelanski.