David Wisnia Named Executive Vice President, Affiliate Relations for the CBS Television Network

David Wisnia has been named Executive Vice President, Affiliate Relations for the CBS Television Network, it was announced today by Diana Wilkin, President, Affiliate Relations. A seasoned sales and distribution executive and former legal counsel, Wisnia will work closely with Wilkin in negotiating new affiliation contracts while helping to oversee the department’s operations and personnel. In addition, Wisnia will serve as a senior liaison to the Affiliate Board and station/ group owners. The appointment is effective August 15.

“David is that rare executive who brings sales, distribution and marketing experience along with a strong legal background,” said Wilkin. "He is someone who understands the nuances of the network-affiliate model, and the value of CBS programming to our many stations. I am looking forward to working with David as we continue to evolve our relationship with our affiliates and set the industry standard.

Wisnia most recently served as Senior Vice President, Distribution, Sales & Marketing/Head of North American and European Operations for News Corporation’s Star TV, where he oversaw day-to-day operations of those region’s businesses, including P&L, affiliate relations, advertising, marketing, local programming, as well as strategic planning for growth. Before working at Star TV, Wisnia was Vice President, Business & Legal Affairs for FoxCable Networks, where he helped oversee the business and legal affairs department for Fox Sports International/FUEL TV cable television channels, domestically and internationally. During this time he also helped manage the Fox Sports channel in the Middle East as well as worked as the lead attorney in negotiations with major sports leagues (including Major League Baseball, National Football League, NASCAR and the PGA). Wisnia previously worked as Director, Associate Director and Attorney for the division.

Wisnia earned his J.D. from Tulane Law School and his bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Irvine.