Scripps Taps Allison Page to Oversee Programming for Its Networks

Scripps Networks programming veteran Allison Page has been promoted to a new position overseeing programming for all six of Scripps’s linear channels, the company said Monday.

As part of a newly created position as general manager of U.S. programming and development for Scripps Networks Interactive, Page will add oversight of programming for Food Network and Cooking Channel to her existing responsibility for programming at HGTV, Travel Channel, DIY Network and Great American Country, said the company.

“Allison Page is one of the most accomplished programming executives working in television today, with a great track record of success in developing talent and formats across all six of our brands,” said Kathleen Finch, Scripps Networks Interactive's Chief Programming, Content & Brand Officer, in a statement. “She has been a central player in the incredible success of HGTV over the last few years, and her creativity and leadership will be key to the continued growth and development of all our networks moving forward.”

In addition, Scripps has tapped Julie Taylor as its senior vice president of program planning & strategy, U.S. Networks, overseeing the scheduling teams across all six networks. Also, Shannon Jamieson Driver, who already leads marketing efforts for all six networks, has been named general manager, U.S. Brand Marketing, and will now contribute support for Scripps Networks Interactive’s digital brands through integrated linear and experiential marketing experiences, said the company.

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.