US broadcaster Fox is disbanding its Fox International Channels division with chief executive Hernan Lopez leaving the company.

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The firm is reorganising its portfolio of global networks, which includes its UK channels Fox and National Geographic, to adopt a more regional approach.

Jan Koeppen, who is based in London, will become president of Fox Networks Group Europe. Separately, Carlos Martinez will become president of Fox Networks Group Latin America and Zubin Gandevia will become president of Fox Networks Group Asia.

All three will report to Fox Networks Group chief executive Peter Rice, a Brit who has worked at the broadcaster for thirty years, and president and chief operating officer Randy Freer.

Lopez, who has been chief executive of Fox International Channels since 2011 following roles in Latin America and a stint as managing director of FX in the UK, is set to start a new venture following his departure.  

“As our television business expands globally, the success and scale of our entertainment and sports brands in these fast-growing regions demand that they stand independently,” said Rice. “Jan, Carlos and Zubin are extremely talented executives with a sharp understanding of the opportunities for new content and programming in their regions.” 

Lopez added: “At Fox, I’ve been fortunate to work with some of the most talented and creative people in media.”