ViacomCBS to combine Australian sales teams

ViacomCBS Networks Australia and Foxtel Media will end of their advertising representation partnership from mid-April.

This follows the merger of Viacom and CBS Corporation to form ViacomCBS Inc.

Rod Prosser (pictured left) will become chief sales officer, Network 10 and ViacomCBS with oversight for Network 10, and ViacomCBS subscription brands MTV, MTV Dance, MTV Music, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., and their related digital and event properties.

Foxtel Media has represented MTV, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., MTV Music and MTV Dance since 2014 (initially as MCN).

ViacomCBS’ executive vice president Australia and New Zealand Paul Anderson said: “Today’s announcement is a great step in realising the benefits of merging the ViacomCBS businesses in Australia and New Zealand,

“By aligning the sales strategy across our free-to-air and subscription TV brands, we are in the best possible position to monetise the power of our great assets.”

Rod Prosser said: “The ViacomCBS subscription brands including MTV, Nickelodeon and Nick Jr., have incredibly strong, young and loyal audiences. When you combine these brands with the strengths of Network 10’s brands and platforms, the collective offering will engage every age and every stage under 50.

“Together, we have brands, shows and events that share a sense of irreverence, a passion to immerse, inspire and engage through moments that define popular culture.”

“Foxtel Media have been great advocates of the ViacomCBS subscription channels over the past five years and I’d like to thank them for their partnership and commitment over this time,” said Ben Richardson, General Manager and SVP of ViacomCBS Pay Networks.

Foxtel Media CEO Mark Frain said, “We have enjoyed a successful sales partnership with ViacomCBS over the years and wish them only the very best in their future efforts.”