Ong Tapped To Lead Travel Channel

National Geographic Channel founding president to lead Scripps-owned network

By Alex Weprin -- Broadcasting & Cable, 4/12/2010 1:36:43 PM

Scripps Networks has named Laureen Ong president of Travel Channel. Ong is no stranger to the cable television business, having served as the founding president of National Geographic Channel.

Most recently, Ong served as COO of Hong Kong-based media company Star Group Limited.

"Laureen has the brand experience and proven track record in developing non-fiction television that will help us build on the recent success that Travel Channel has achieved," said Kenneth W. Lowe, chairman, president and CEO of Scripps Networks Interactive, in a statement. "She also has an excellent business acumen that will facilitate expanding the brand into new ventures within the travel category, much like we have done with Food Network and HGTV."

The network also named Jonathan Sichel GM of the channel. Sichel had been serving as interim GM since the network was acquired by Scripps in November.