28.02.2020 – New addition strengthens H&C Board with video entertainment and subscription model expertise
London, United Kingdom – April 28th, 2020 – Horse & Country TV (H&C), the leading international equestrian sports network, is pleased to announce the appointment of former 20th Century Fox and STARZ network executive, John Penney, to its Board of Directors.
Penney is a senior level industry leader with extensive knowledge and experience growing subscription businesses within the video entertainment sector. Most recently he was EVP, Consumer Development and Strategic Partnerships at 20th Century Fox, responsible for new business initiatives and partnerships across the $9bn film studio.
Previously, Penney served as Chief Strategy Officer for STARZ, the premium cable and satellite television network owned by Lionsgate, and was also Chairman of STARZ Play Arabia, a successful start-up premium SVOD service in the Middle East and North Africa.
Penney has held senior positions at HBO, IMG, and Viacom, having started his career in global media and entertainment as a banker and equity research analyst with Sanford C Bernstein and The Chase Manhattan Bank.
H&C CEO, Heather Killen, said: “We are delighted that John has agreed to join the H&C Board. At a time when we are making great strides in growing the subscription side of our business, his knowledge and expertise in this area will be the added ingredient in turbo-charging our efforts.”
John Penney commented: “I’m father to a dedicated equestrian daughter so I know the sector, the passion it inspires and, most importantly, the scale of the opportunity. I’m looking forward to bringing my skill set to bear on a fascinating business at a key phase in its development.”
About H&C:
H&C is the leading international equestrian sports network. Based in London, it is available via connected TV, mobile and web subscriptions, including Apple TV, Android TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Amazon Prime Video, in the US, the UK, Ireland, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Australia, as well as on pay-TV platforms in several of these key equestrian markets. H&C recently completed the acquisition of EQ Sports Net, the US’s largest specialist equestrian streamer, resulting in a significant increase in live sports coverage for viewers. Overall, H&C’s integrated, multi-platform offering is unique in giving subscribers 24/7, year-round premium equestrian content.