Zeiler leaves RTL, joins Turner

Gerhard Zeiler is to become president of Turner Broadcasting System International after announcing his departure from the RTL Group.

The move will see Zeiler, who was at the international broadcast group for 13 years and in charge for nine, run Turner’s bouquet of 130 channels in 200 countries.

He will report to Phil Kent, chairman and chief executive of Turner Broadcasting System and will run global channels including CNN, TNT, Cartoon Network and Turner Classic Movies as well as a number of specific local channels.

“His programming success; entrepreneurial experience within a big company; ability to run multiple lines of business; deep understanding of the digital landscape and opportunity; relationships across the media landscape; and passion for the television business combine in a great international partner for me, an exciting leader for the division and a strong addition to our executive committee and the company overall,” said Kent.

Meanwhile, Guillaume de Posch, currently chief operating officer of RTL Group, will take over Zeiler’s responsibilities for RTL’s international channels and production businesses including FremantleMedia. Anke Schäferkordt will continue to run its German TV business in addition to her role as CEO of RTL Group.

Zeiler will leave following RTL’s annual general meeting on April 18.