Versant Names Tom Rogers Senior Advisor
Tom Rogers, a seasoned media executive known for his role in launching MSNBC and CNBC, has now taken on a new challenge. He has been appointed as a senior advisor at Versant, a new media company formed from the cable assets of NBCUniversal. With the decline in consumer interest in cable TV, Rogers is tasked with reimagining the future of these iconic channels.
Versant, expected to be spun off by Comcast before the end of 2025, will encompass a diverse portfolio of media properties including MSNBC, CNBC, USA, Oxygen, Golf Channel, and E!. Mark Lazarus, CEO of Versant, praised Rogers for his unparalleled ability to navigate the ever-changing media landscape and anticipates his invaluable contributions to the company’s growth.
Rogers’ illustrious career includes spearheading NBC’s expansion into cable television at a time when the industry was still in its infancy. Under his leadership, CNBC and MSNBC were launched, marking significant milestones in the media landscape. He also led Primedia, a magazine conglomerate specializing in niche publications, foreshadowing the current trend of direct-to-consumer media offerings by traditional conglomerates.
In his new role at Versant, Rogers will provide strategic counsel on industry trends, market positioning, and business development opportunities. Drawing from his experience in navigating media transformations, he aims to position Versant as a leader in the evolving media landscape. Rogers expressed his excitement about shaping the future of a company poised for expansion beyond traditional cable offerings.
With Rogers’ expertise and vision, Versant is poised to carve out a unique position in the competitive media industry. As consumer preferences shift towards digital platforms, Versant’s ambitious plans and agility under Rogers’ guidance are set to redefine the company’s role in the ever-changing media landscape.
