Ryan Sharkey has been named senior vice president, programming and content strategy at CW. He replaces Kevin Levy, who left the network in June.
Sharkey will spearhead the growth of The CW as well as its AVOD platform and FAST channel extensions. He will be based in New York.
“As The CW explores new content that will resonate with viewers on both our linear and streaming channels, Ryan is the ideal candidate to lead our programming team,” said CW President Brad Schwartz. “With Ryan’s vast experience in all areas of network scheduling and acquisitions, we’re confident he will set The CW up for immeasurable success.”
“The CW is going through an exciting transformation, and I’m thrilled to join the team at this opportune time to grow the network and its digital platforms into a profitable destination for premier programming,” said Sharkey. “I look forward to leveraging my long-standing industry partnerships, financial background and creative dealmaking skills to enhance the intense work Brad and his team have put into this transition. Brad is an energizing creative force, and I can’t wait to partner with him.”
Most recently, Sharkey served as SVP, Content Acquisitions for NBCUniversal where he curated programming across the NBCUniversal cable networks, broadcast TV and streaming portfolio. He joined NBC in 2002 after training on GE’s Corporate Audit Staff. He started his NBCUniversal career as a financial analyst responsible for the programming budgets at CNBC then USA Network and SYFY Channel.
