Marc Etkind to Head Science Channel

Destination America general manager Marc Etkind has been named general manager of Science Channel, continuing the repositioning of Discovery Communications-owned network executives under Discovery head Rich Ross.

Etkind, who helped launch Destination America, will now oversee day-to-day operations for Science Channel, effectively replacing former Science general manger Rita Mullin who recently left the company.

Etkind will report to Discovery Channel president Rich Ross, who last month added oversight of Animal Planet and Science Channel.

“Marc has a strong record of programming successes and a fascinating background in science,” said Ross. “He has an instinct for what audiences want to watch and is well positioned to lead Science Channel.”

Jane Latman will take over Etkind’s spot as general manager of Destination America, adding to her role as senior vice president of development at Investigation Discovery. Latman, who will oversee the development, production, programming and marketing of the growing network, will continue to report to Henry Schleiff, Group President of Investigation Discovery, American Heroes Channel and Destination America.  

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.