Nickelodeon UK & Ireland has appointed the former UK and EMEA Scripps Networks programming VP Katharina Feistauer as its new programming veep.

Beginning July 3, Feistauer will report to Nickelodeon UK & Ireland GM, Alison Bakunowich, and be responsible for developing and implementing schedules and media strategies across Nick’s seven linear channels in the region, and the brand’s on demand and digital platforms.

She replaces James Newton, who left the position in February to pursue other opportunities. Newton had held the role since April 2016.

The appointment comes as Nickelodeon enters its 11th consecutive month as the top UK commercial kids network, according to UK audience measurement org BARB.

During her two-year stint at Scripps, Feistauer was instrumental in strengthening nine channel feeds, including Travel Channel, Food Network, HGTV and Fine Living. She previously held key positions at Discovery Networks and NBC Networks International.

Nickelodeon UK & Ireland Network is currently available in more than 13 million cable and satellite homes and reaches more than 10 million viewers per month.