Fuse Media Taps Patrick Courtney for Digital Role

Fuse Media has tapped digital media executive Patrick Courtney as its new senior vice president of digital strategy and operations, the network announced Friday (June 30).

In his new role Courtney will be responsible for expanding Fuse’s digital and social media platforms, as well as the development of audience, short-form content distribution and revenue opportunities.

Previously, Courtney served as senior vice president and marketing strategy at digital media company Above Average, where he had oversight of programming, audience development, distribution and marketing programs.

Courtney, who will begin at Fuse July 6, will report to Fuse Media president and CEO Michael Schwimmer.

“Fuse Media is staying ahead of ... industry shifts by expanding our multiplatform content offerings to reach and engage our valuable audience, and better serve our distribution and advertising partners,” said Schwimmer in a statement. “Patrick will be a strong contributor in this on-going transformation. He brings with him deep experience in the digital media space – ranging from content-driven audience development/engagement to integrated marketing for digital ad sales and branded entertainment – that will complement the strong team in place.”

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.