Lauren Petterson Named Fox Business Network President

Lauren Petterson has been named President of FOX Business Network (FBN), replacing longtime network executive Brian Jones, the network said Thursday.

Petterson, who most recently served as senior vice president of morning programming and talent development for FNC, will oversee operations for the 12-year old Fox Business, as well as continue to oversee talent development at Fox News Channel, according to network officials. Petterson will report to Fox News Media CEO Suzanne Scott.

“Lauren has extraordinary skills in developing programming and working with talent and I am confident she will lead FOX Business to even further success,” Scott said in a statement.

Added Petterson: “I’m thrilled to take on this new, challenging role at a pivotal time in business news and look forward to working with such a dedicated and talented staff both on and off the air.”

Jones, who was named the network’s first ever president in 2017, had helmed the launch team for Fox Business in 2007, and during his tenure oversaw the ratings increases over CNBC during key market hours and early evening timeslots.

“Brian is a talented executive and a distinguished colleague who built Fox Business and accomplished a great deal during his 20 years of combined service at both FBN and FNC,” said Scott. “We wish him continued success as he embarks on his next chapter.”

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Jones added, “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and working with Lauren for several years. Always a kind, creative and collaborative colleague, I’m sure she will lead the hard working Fox Business team to the next level.”

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.