VH1 Promotes Producer Dara Cook to VP, Strategic Development

VH1 has promoted executive producer Dara Cook to vice president, strategic development. In her new role, Cook will continue to produce topical programming for the network, and will take on responsibility for branding opportunities and cross-channel priorities.

Cook will report to Nina Diaz, head of reality programming and development, and work closely with network president Chris McCarthy.

“Dara is an exceptional development executive with a unique business acumen,” McCarthy and Diaz said. “She has been instrumental to VH1’s record growth and we know she will continue to do great things in this expanded role.”

Cook is a Viacom veteran. She began her television career with MTV Networks, having served as head writer for the VMAs from 2007 to 2013 and as a writer and producer for “Total Request Live.” Following a stint on the business side at Viacom, she returned to producing at MTV2 with shows such as “Uncommon Sense with Charlamagne” and “Ain’t That America.” She previously served as a music writer, with her work published by the Associated Press, VIBE Magazine and The Source. Prior to that she worked in ad sales and marketing.

“VH1 is an iconic brand with a terrific team and I am excited to play a part in its sustained growth,” Cook said.

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