Pop Names David Mandell COO

Pop has named its general counsel David Mandell to the newly created position of Chief Operating Officer.

Mandell, who joined Pop in December 2013, will add content distribution, business development and operations to his current responsibilities as general counsel, said network officials.

Mandell previously served as executive vice president and general counsel/corporate strategies for Mandalay Digital Group.

“David’s innumerable contributions both as a legal and business advisor, as well as a team leader, have helped drive Pop’s growth and momentum during our launch year,” said, Pop President Brad Schwartz to whom Mandell will report. “With our expanding programming slate and new market opportunities ahead, David will play an increasingly important role in managing and growing our rapidly evolving business.”

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.