GSN Programming Chief To Exit

Yet another executive is exiting GSN, with senior vice president of programming Jamie Roberts becoming the latest to bolt.

GSN said Friday that Roberts is going to open a Los Angeles-based independent production company focusing on cross-platform programming for the global market. The network has struck a first-look production deal with Roberts’ new venture.

Roberts will remain in his current capacity as GSN searches for his successor.

“We are excited about a continuing relationship with Jamie,” GSN CEO David Goldhill said. “He was an architect of GSN’s shift in focus and has helped us gain our footing in creating new and innovative cross-platform franchises that drive audience participation.  I expect that, working with a new head of programming, Jamie will continue to help broaden the definition and audience appeal of game-centric programming at GSN.”

Since Goldhill came to GSN last year, there has been a flurry of executives leaving the network. That list includes senior vice president of ad sales Christopher Raleigh; senior vice president of digital media John Roberts; vice president of distribution Scott Perlmutter; and senior vice president of marketing Dena Kaplan. 

Roberts ushered in new initiatives highlighted by GSN Live, a new daytime block that provides viewers and opportunity to participate to win cash and prizes, and advertisers a unique opportunity to integrate tightly with game content. 

British-born Roberts, who came to GSN after 10 years at Sky Networks, was responsible for developing originals for the network including Grand Slam, and the soon to launch Catch-21