ViacomCBS appoints co-general managers for Africa

Following the departure of Alex Okosi, ViacomCBS has appointed Craig Paterson and Monde Twala as co-general managers of its African business. 

Twala, senior vice president and general manager of editorial for VCN Africa, will focus on content, creative, editorial and marketing for VCNI brands. Twala is currently the vice president of ViacomCBS Networks Africa’s BET, Youth & Music, ViacomCBS Networks International and Africa.

Paterson, senior vice president and general manager of VCN Africa will be responsible for all corporate functions, including business development and strategy.  Currently SVP of business operations for ViacomCBS Networks Africa, Paterson is responsible for driving strategic growth and business opportunities in Africa.

Raffaele Annecchino, president of ViacomCBS Networks Europe Middle East, Africa and Asia said: “I am delighted that Craig and Monde will take over leadership in this important market. Both have worked with Alex for years, which coupled with their expertise will ensure a seamless transition.

“Craig and Monde are experts in their respective areas and in addition to incredible business acumen, have demonstrated leadership and collaborative excellence throughout each of their careers and tenures with the company.”

They replace the veteran Okosi who has joined YouTube as its managing director for emerging markets in EMEA

Annecchino said: “Alex has made an immeasurable impact on our business in Africa. Since launching MTV Base in 2005, Alex has spearheaded the development of our business on the continent, which now delivers more channels to Africa than any other international network – reaching 100 million viewers in 48 territories across MTV, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon and BET.”

ViacomCBS Networks International president and CEO David Lynn expressed his gratitude to Okosi, and said that his leadership “has been essential to our success in Africa and to the continued growth of BET International.”