Dana Strong takes the lead as new Sky CEO

Comcast has named Dana Strong as the new CEO of Sky following the announcement that incumbent Jeremy Darroch is vacating the position.

Strong’s most recent position was President of Consumer Services at Comcast, the American media giant which acquired Sky for £30.5 billion in 2018. In her new role she will report directly to the company’s CEO Brian L Roberts.

Although much of her career has been spent in the US, the incoming CEO has extensive experience of the UK broadcasting industry, having previously worked for Sky’s rival Virgin Media as Chief Operating Officer. 

Strong commented: “There are few businesses that have the track record of Sky, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead the company. 

“I’ve always admired Sky’s innovation, brand, and exceptional focus on the customer. I look forward to working with this incredible team to continue to grow the business and shape the next chapter for Sky.”

As CEO of Sky, Strong will be responsible for Sky Sports, one of the UK’s leading sports channels, providing coverage of the Premier League, English Football League, Betfred Super League, England Rugby Union internationals, Formula One, the major US Open, The Open Championship,  Masters Tournament and PGA Championship golf competitions, in addition to professional boxing matches in association with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing.

Outgoing Darroch has served as Sky CEO for over 13 years,and will remain on the board throughout 2021 as Executive Chairman, continuing to operate as an advisor for the media giant.

He made a significant impact during his tenure, expanding the firm’s customer base to over 24 million subscribers, investing heavily in TV technology and secured Sky’s position as the primary broadcaster of Premier League football.

“It has been a privilege to lead Sky for 13 years, and an experience that I have looked forward to every day, so my decision to leave has not been easy,” said Darroch.

“But with the business firmly settled into the wider Comcast Corporation and a strong plan in place, now is the right time.”