O’Connell Promoted to EVP at NBCU Lifestyle Nets

NBC Universal's Lifestyle Networks group said it has promoted David O’Connell to executive vice president, Production Management and Operations, Lifestyle Networks.

O’Connell will continue to report to EVP of Program Strategy Lifestyle Networks, and Production, Bravo Media Jerry Leo. Based in Los Angeles, O’Connell will add responsibility for E! Entertainment and Esquire Network to his current duties at Bravo and Oxygen Media. 

“David is an integral part of the production team with an exceptional understanding of the industry and practical operational experience,” Leo said in a statement. “His reliable leadership and proven track record add immeasurable value to the continued success of all four networks.” 

In his previous role with Bravo and Oxygen Media, O’Connell supervised all aspects related to the production of original series and specials ranging from Oxygen’s expansion of the popular franchise with Preachers of Detroit, to Sisterhood of Hip Hop and The Prancing Elites Project along with Bravo’s hit The Real Housewives franchise and the Emmy Award winning Top Chef.  Previously, senior vice president, Production and Operations for Bravo Media, O’Connell joined the network as a supervising producer in 2004.  He has worked on several series including the Emmy Nominated Flipping Out and Million Dollar Listing franchise, Shahs of Sunset, Southern Charm, Vanderpump Rules, Watch What Happens Live, Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, and others. 

Prior to joining Bravo, O'Connell served as head of production at World of Wonder Productions where he managed series and specials including HBO's Monica in Black & White, A&E's The History of Hair and VH1’s 100 Greatest Dance Songs of Rock & Roll.  Additional credits include the GLAAD Media Awards, Drama Desk Awards, Empire State Pride Agenda Awards and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Gala as well as multiple theatrical productions for The Public Theatre/NY Shakespeare Festival and Shakespeare in the Park.