Comcast Corporation has announced the anticipated members of the inaugural Board of Directors for VERSANT Media Group, Inc., its planned spin-off comprising select media brands and digital businesses. VERSANT aims to become a leading independent publicly traded media company, featuring iconic brands such as USA Network, CNBC, MSNBC, Oxygen, E!, SYFY, and Golf Channel, alongside digital assets like Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, and SportsEngine. The board, chaired by David Novak, brings diverse expertise in media, technology, finance, and strategy to guide VERSANT’s growth.
VERSANT Media Group announces its first Board of Directors.
Board includes experts in media, technology, finance, and strategy.
David Novak, former Yum! Brands CEO, to serve as Chairman.
VERSANT to include brands like CNBC, MSNBC, and USA Network.
Spin-off aims to reach over 65 million U.S. households.
Company projects $7 billion in annual revenue from its assets.
The newly announced board, led by Chairman David Novak, includes eight members with extensive experience across multiple industries. “I am pleased to welcome this accomplished forward-looking team to our future Board of Directors,” said David Novak, Chairman of the Board of Directors for VERSANT. “Their collective expertise and perspectives will strengthen our governance and support VERSANT’s future success.” The board’s composition ensures robust guidance as VERSANT establishes itself as an independent media powerhouse.
The board features prominent figures such as Mark Lazarus, VERSANT’s prospective CEO, who previously led NBCUniversal’s TV and streaming platforms. Other members include Rebecca Campbell, former Disney executive; Creighton Condon, a mergers and acquisitions expert; and Michael Conway, ex-CEO of Starbucks North America. David Eun, with experience at Samsung and Google, and Gerald L. Hassell, former BNY Mellon CEO, add technology and finance expertise. Scott Mahoney and Maritza Montiel bring brand development and corporate leadership experience, while Len Potter contributes investment and biotech insights.
Upon completion of the spin-off from Comcast, VERSANT will operate as a leading news, sports, and entertainment company, reaching over 65 million U.S. households. “The announcement of the future Board marks a critical milestone as we define our long-term strategy and advance the value of our iconic media portfolio,” said Mark Lazarus, prospective Chief Executive Officer of VERSANT. With assets generating approximately $7 billion annually, VERSANT is poised to grow its brands and expand monetization through a differentiated content offering.
VERSANT’s strategy focuses on leveraging its marquee brands to deliver live news, sports, and entertainment content. The inclusion of digital platforms like Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes enhances its ability to engage audiences and drive revenue. The board’s diverse expertise will support VERSANT’s goal of building audience loyalty and expanding its market presence, positioning it as a competitive player in the evolving media landscape.
The formation of VERSANT’s Board of Directors marks a pivotal step toward establishing a dynamic, independent media company. With a strong leadership team and a portfolio of iconic brands, VERSANT is well-equipped to capitalize on growth opportunities and deliver value to audiences and stakeholders alike.
Comcast Corporation is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences.
VERSANT, Comcast Corporation’s planned spin-off, will be a leading independent publicly traded media company comprised of most of NBCUniversal’s cable television networks, including USA Network, CNBC, MSNBC, Oxygen, E!, SYFY and Golf Channel along with complementary digital assets Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, GolfPass, and SportsEngine. The well-capitalized company will have significant scale as a pure-play set of assets anchored by leading news, sports and entertainment content. The spin-off is expected to be completed during 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions.
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