Versant Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Versant has 9 executives leading key functions including human resources, finance, marketing, communications, distribution, operations, digital platforms, and sports.

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Versant operates as a holding company and house of brands, empowering its diverse portfolio of cable television networks and digital assets to make independent strategic investments and acquisitions within the dynamic media landscape.

Leadership Roles at Versant

  • Chief Financial Officer, Television Networks - Kristin Newkirk
  • Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Production & Distribution Finance - Edward Wright
  • President, Distribution & Partnerships - Roy Cho
  • President, Operations & Technology - Jeffrey Mayzurk
  • President, Digital Platforms & Ventures - William McIntosh
  • President, Sports - Matthew Hong
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Brian Dorfler
  • Chief Marketing Officer, MS Now & Cnbc - Thomas Clendenin
  • Chief Communications Officer - Keith Cocozza
  • Kristin Newkirk - Chief Financial Officer, Television Networks

    Kristin Newkirk, the Chief Financial Officer, Television Networks at Versant, manages the financial operations and strategic planning for the company's extensive cable television network portfolio. Overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting for channels such as USA Network, CNBC, and E!, Newkirk ensures fiscal discipline and drives profitability. This critical role involves close collaboration with network leadership to identify investment opportunities and manage financial risks across the television division. By optimizing financial performance and resource allocation, Kristin Newkirk directly supports the sustained growth and market competitiveness of Versant's television assets. Ultimately, Newkirk safeguards the financial health and strategic direction of the television networks.

    Edward Wright - Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Production & Distribution Finance

    Edward Wright, the Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Production & Distribution Finance at Versant, oversees the comprehensive financial strategy for the company's production and distribution arms. Managing financial planning, analysis, and reporting for content creation and distribution channels, Wright ensures robust fiscal management across these key operational areas. This dual role involves strategic oversight of investments in new productions and the financial viability of distribution agreements, directly impacting Versant's content pipeline and market reach. By driving financial efficiency and identifying growth opportunities, Edward Wright significantly contributes to the profitability and expansion of Versant's media properties. Ultimately, Wright ensures the financial integrity and strategic alignment of production and distribution finance.

    Roy Cho - President, Distribution & Partnerships

    Roy Cho, the President, Distribution & Partnerships at Versant, spearheads the company's strategy for content distribution and strategic alliances across the media ecosystem. Overseeing negotiations with cable providers, digital platforms, and international partners, Cho maximizes the reach and revenue of Versant's extensive content library. This leadership role involves identifying and securing new distribution channels and forging key partnerships that expand the company's market footprint. By driving innovative distribution models and cultivating strong relationships, Roy Cho directly contributes to Versant's growth and market penetration. Ultimately, Cho ensures optimal access to Versant's content and strengthens its position in the global media market.

    Jeffrey Mayzurk - President, Operations & Technology

    Jeffrey Mayzurk, the President, Operations & Technology at Versant, directs the company's operational infrastructure and technological advancements across its network of cable channels and digital platforms. Overseeing master control, technical operations, and the implementation of cutting-edge media technologies, Mayzurk ensures seamless content delivery and operational efficiency. This role is vital for maintaining the technical backbone that supports Versant's diverse media properties, including facilities in New Jersey. By driving technological innovation and optimizing operational workflows, Jeffrey Mayzurk directly enhances the company's ability to produce and distribute high-quality content. Ultimately, Mayzurk guarantees the reliability and scalability of Versant's operational and technological capabilities.
    Jeffrey Mayzurk

    William McIntosh - President, Digital Platforms & Ventures

    William McIntosh, the President, Digital Platforms & Ventures at Versant, leads the strategic development and expansion of the company's digital assets and new media ventures. Overseeing platforms such as Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, and GolfNow, McIntosh drives innovation in digital content, user engagement, and e-commerce strategies. This position is critical for identifying and capitalizing on emerging digital opportunities and ensuring Versant's strong presence in the online media space. By fostering growth in digital platforms and exploring new venture investments, William McIntosh directly contributes to Versant's diversified revenue streams and market leadership. Ultimately, McIntosh ensures the strategic growth and profitability of Versant's digital portfolio.
    William McIntosh

    Matthew Hong - President, Sports

    Matthew Hong, the President, Sports at Versant, directs the company's comprehensive sports media strategy, including the acquisition and management of major sports media rights. Overseeing coverage for events such as USGA golf championships and WNBA regular season and playoff games, Hong positions Versant as a premier destination for sports entertainment. This role involves strategic planning for sports content, broadcast operations, and audience engagement across networks like Golf Channel. By securing key sports rights and developing compelling sports programming, Matthew Hong directly enhances Versant's market position and appeal to sports enthusiasts. Ultimately, Hong drives the success and growth of Versant's sports division.

    Brian Dorfler - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Brian Dorfler, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Versant, directs all human capital strategies and organizational development initiatives. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, and compensation and benefits programs, Dorfler ensures Versant cultivates a high-performance culture aligned with its media and entertainment objectives. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive environment that supports the company's diverse portfolio of cable networks and digital assets. By optimizing workforce planning and development, Brian Dorfler directly contributes to the operational efficiency and strategic growth of the company's various brands. Ultimately, Dorfler secures a robust and engaged workforce essential for Versant's market leadership.
    Brian Dorfler

    Thomas Clendenin - Chief Marketing Officer, MS Now & Cnbc

    Thomas Clendenin, the Chief Marketing Officer, MS Now & Cnbc at Versant, directs all marketing and brand strategy initiatives for these specific television networks. Overseeing campaign development, audience engagement, and market positioning, Clendenin drives viewership growth and brand loyalty for MS Now and CNBC. This leadership position involves close coordination with programming and content teams to ensure marketing efforts amplify network success. By executing innovative marketing strategies and leveraging digital platforms, Thomas Clendenin directly enhances the market presence and revenue generation of these key Versant properties. Ultimately, Clendenin ensures the sustained brand strength and commercial success of MS Now and CNBC.

    Keith Cocozza - Chief Communications Officer

    Keith Cocozza, the Chief Communications Officer at Versant, leads all corporate communications, public relations, and media relations strategies. Overseeing internal and external messaging, crisis communications, and stakeholder engagement, Cocozza shapes Versant's public image and reinforces its brand narrative across the media landscape. This role is crucial for managing the company's reputation and ensuring consistent communication with investors, employees, and the public. By developing and executing comprehensive communication plans, Keith Cocozza directly supports Versant's strategic objectives and market positioning. Ultimately, Cocozza ensures clear, consistent, and impactful communication that underpins the company's success.
    Keith Cocozza

    Explore Leadership Teams in Broadcasting

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Versant Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Versant?
    Versant is led by Kristin Newkirk (Chief Financial Officer, Television Networks), along with executives such as Edward Wright (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Production & Distribution Finance) and Roy Cho (President, Distribution & Partnerships).
    Who is part of Versant’s executive team?
    The executive team of Versant includes leaders such as Kristin Newkirk (Chief Financial Officer, Television Networks), Edward Wright (Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Production & Distribution Finance), Roy Cho (President, Distribution & Partnerships) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Versant have?
    Versant has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Versant’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Versant includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Television Networks, Chief Financial Officer & Vice President, Production & Distribution Finance, President, Distribution & Partnerships, President, Operations & Technology, President, Digital Platforms & Ventures.