N※N

AMC Networks Appoints Tom Keaveney to Lead U.K. Operations

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. ppoints-tom-keaveney-to-lead-u-k-operations.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 11:14 GMT by The Hollywood Reporter
      Locales: England, UNITED KINGDOM

London, U.K. - February 17th, 2026 - AMC Networks International (AMCI) today announced the appointment of Tom Keaveney as President of U.K. operations, effective immediately. This strategic move underscores AMCI's commitment to strengthening its position within the increasingly competitive U.K. media landscape and signals a period of potential expansion and innovation.

Keaveney will assume full responsibility for all of AMCI's U.K. channels and associated business activities. This encompasses a diverse portfolio including BBC America (a long-standing partner providing British content to North American audiences, but increasingly important within the U.K. as well), the flagship AMC channel known for critically acclaimed dramas, SundanceTV, offering independent films and documentaries, and the rapidly growing horror and thriller streaming service, Shudder. The breadth of this remit highlights AMCI's ambition to cater to a wide range of viewer preferences.

The appointment comes following the departure of Simone Smith, a veteran of AMCI who dedicated 16 years to the company. Smith's contributions were significant in establishing AMCI's U.K. presence, and her departure creates an opportunity for Keaveney to bring a fresh perspective and drive further growth. Notably, Keaveney will now directly oversee Mark Bleckman, CEO of AMC Networks International, indicating a considerable level of authority and responsibility within the organization.

Keaveney isn't a newcomer to the U.K. media world. His extensive background includes significant leadership roles at industry giants Sky and Virgin Media. More recently, he served as Managing Director for U.K. and Ireland at Fox Networks Group Europe and Africa, a position that provided him with deep understanding of content distribution, channel management, and the nuances of the European broadcast market. This experience is precisely what AMCI is banking on as they navigate the shifting dynamics of the U.K. television industry.

"Tom's extensive knowledge of the U.K. media landscape, combined with his proven ability to develop and execute successful business strategies, makes him the ideal leader for AMC Networks International's U.K. business," stated Mark Bleckman in a press release. "We are thrilled to welcome him to the team." This sentiment suggests that AMCI isn't simply looking for a manager, but a strategist capable of proactively identifying and capitalizing on market opportunities.

Keaveney himself expressed enthusiasm for the role, saying, "I'm excited to join AMC Networks International at such a pivotal time for the company and the U.K. media market. I'm looking forward to working with the team to build on the successes of our channels and explore new opportunities for growth." The phrase "pivotal time" is significant, acknowledging the disruption caused by streaming services and the evolving consumer habits that are reshaping the industry.

U.K. Market a Key Focus for AMCI

AMCI has demonstrated an increasing commitment to the U.K. market in recent years, evidenced by consistent investment in local content production and a steady expansion of its channel offerings. This isn't simply about importing American shows (although that remains a core part of the business). The company recognizes the growing demand for British-made programming, both domestically and internationally, and is actively seeking to commission and co-produce series that resonate with U.K. audiences. Reaching over 22 million U.K. households, AMCI already has a significant footprint, but ambitions are clearly higher.

Industry analysts suggest that Keaveney's appointment is a direct response to the increasing competition from global streaming giants like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video. These platforms have poured significant resources into original content and aggressive marketing campaigns, forcing traditional broadcasters to adapt or risk losing market share.

What to Expect from Keaveney's Tenure

Several key areas are likely to receive attention under Keaveney's leadership. Expect to see a continued emphasis on data-driven programming decisions, utilizing audience analytics to identify content gaps and tailor channel offerings. Further investment in Shudder, capitalizing on the growing popularity of horror and thriller genres, is also anticipated. Furthermore, Keaveney's experience at Fox suggests he will explore opportunities for cross-promotion and synergistic partnerships within the broader media ecosystem.

Another crucial aspect will be navigating the complex landscape of rights acquisition and distribution. With content ownership becoming increasingly fragmented, securing exclusive rights to high-demand programs will be paramount. Keaveney's network of contacts and negotiation skills will be invaluable in this regard.

The U.K. media market is currently undergoing a period of significant transformation, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer behavior, and fierce competition. Tom Keaveney's appointment represents a bold move by AMC Networks International to not only navigate these challenges but to emerge as a leading player in the future of British television.