Scripps Networks Elevates Two To Senior Distribution Positions

Damian Riordan

Damian Riordan today was been named vice president and general manager of distribution for Scripps Networks, effective immediately. Riordan will head sales for the national distribution of The E.W. Scripps Co.’s national networks portfolio — including Ion, Ion Mystery, Ion Plus, Bounce, Grit, Laff, Newsy and Court TV — across all platforms.

He reports to Jeffrey Wolf, chief distribution officer, Scripps Networks, who said: “Damian’s vast experience makes him the perfect choice for this newly-created position, leading our efforts to distribute Scripps Networks on every available platform. I have known Damian personally and professionally for more than 30 years and I am excited to have him as a business partner as we navigate expanding our footprint in OTA, CTV, OTT, MVPD, vMVPD and anywhere else viewers consume video.”

Riordan joined Scripps in January 2021 following its acquisition of Ion Media Networks, where he was responsible for initiating and executing strategic relationships with leading broadcast partners in the United States. He is a 28-year industry veteran, spending more than half his career with Time Warner, where he held lead management positions in various revenue generating business units.

Previously, Riordan was founder and managing principal of Peloton Media Advisors, an M&A advisory firm specializing in the media and entertainment sector. He also was with HT Capital Advisors, responsible for building the firm’s media and entertainment platform, and with Communications Equity Associates, where he was responsible originating and executing various engagements for the firm in the media and entertainment sector.

Riordan holds a BA in journalism from Marquette University.

Matthew Hijuelos

Matthew Hijuelos has been promoted to vice president of distribution partnerships for Scripps Networks, reporting to Riordan. He will lead the strategy, development and execution of distribution partnership efforts across cable, satellite, telco, digital and over-the-top platforms.

Hijuelos joined Scripps in January 2021 following its acquisition of Ion Media, where he served as vice president, business development, overseeing the identification and execution of partnership and growth efforts, including the company’s expansion into OTT video distribution. He was responsible for setting corporate and product strategy, creating value through strategic broadcast and technology transactions, and distributing Ion and Ion Plus on streaming television services and CTV/FAST platforms.

Prior to joining Ion Media, Hijuelos served as senior director, business development for Akamai Technologies, joining Akamai via the acquisition of pioneering streaming media network Intervu. Hijuelos also held positions at KPMG Consulting and J.P. Morgan.

He holds a BBA with distinction, from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.