Scripps Networks Chief Information Officer Ron Johnson To Retire; Bob Baskerville To Take Over Tech Post

KNOXVILLE, Tenn.–Bob Baskerville, a member of the original team that helped launch HGTV nearly 20 years ago, has been named chief information officer for Scripps Networks Interactive Inc. (NYSE: SNI). Baskerville will provide leadership and oversight for all information technology operations at the company, which operates a portfolio of popular lifestyle television networks, websites and related content businesses. In addition to HGTV, Scripps Networks Interactive brands include Food Network, Travel Channel, DIY Network, Cooking Channel and Great American Country. Baskerville, who currently serves as chief operating officer for the company’s growing international business, will succeed current Chief Information Officer Ron Johnson, who has announced his intention to retire at the end of the year. Baskerville will report to Mark Hale, executive vice president and chief technology officer. “Harnessing the potential and opportunity presented by the complex and rapidly-evolving world of technology is paramount to our continued success,” Hale said. “When we look at where the world of information technology and role of chief information officer are heading, we hit all the marks with Bob – a transformative leader who is intimately familiar with our business, builds and expands relationships, and takes the right risks. He will marry our overall business needs with the right technology services and solutions to support them.” Baskerville has been serving as chief operation officer for the company’s international business for the past three years. Prior to that he served as president of the company’s premium-tier channels where he directed business strategy, content development and operations. In that capacity, he shepherded DIY Network from startup to one of America’s highest-rated pay TV premium-tier channels. Johnson has served as the company’s chief information officer since 2003. The veteran technology executive helped build a world class information technology organization, and provided the architecture for technology processes and systems that allowed Scripps to expand its brands and digital businesses, as well as fuel global growth.