Hilary Smith to Head USA Network Communications

Replaces Jean Guerin, who moves to the Cable Entertainment Group

By Tim Baysinger -- Broadcasting & Cable, 2/27/2013 12:53:00 PM

NBCUniversal has appointed Hilary Smith as senior VP of communications for USA Network.

Smith will lead communications for the network and report directly to copresidents Chris McCumber and Jeff Wachtel. She replaces Jean Guerin, who moves to the Cable Entertainment Group run by Bonnie Hammer. Guerin, who will serve as senior VP of corporate communications for the group, will report to Cory Shields, executive VP.

"Hilary is a highly strategic and creative thinker with an outstanding track record in the industry," said McCumber.

Added Wachtel: "She will be a tremendous asset to the team, and joins at a key time for USA, as we build on our strong momentum as the top cable network and broaden our programming into new genres, including comedy and reality."

Most recently, Smith oversaw communications for the NBCU Entertainment & Digital Networks and Integrated Media group.