David Lyle Named NatGeo Channels CEO

David Lyle has been named chief executive officer of the National Geographic Channels US and assumes responsibility for global programming. The appointment, which is effective immediately, was announced by the National Geographic Channels board, to whom he will report.

The veteran television executive has been working with the National Geographic management team as the head of West Coast development for several months. National Geographic Channels President Steve Schiffman will report to Lyle.

In his new role, Lyle will be responsible for the overall supervision of the domestic channels — which include the National Geographic Channel (NGC), Nat Geo Wild and Nat Geo Mundo — owned jointly by the Fox Networks Group and the National Geographic Society.

“David brings extensive creative experience and a strong international perspective to this critical role,” said Tim Kelly, president of the National Geographic Society. “He will be focused on delivering compelling popular programming that reflects, enhances and delivers on the substance of the National Geographic brand and mission.”

Lyle will be based in Washington, where the channels are headquartered.

Prior to joining National Geographic Lyle was with Fox since 2005, having served as president of Fox Look, a unit specializing in the international licensing and production of reality formats, and the Fox Reality Channel, a national cable outlet dedicated to unscripted programming.

Prior to joining Fox, he served in senior executive positions at successful production and television companies, including FreemantleMedia, Pearson Television and Australia’s Nine Network.