Herb Scannell, formerly President of Nickelodeon, CEO, and co-founder of Next New Networks – which was sold to YouTube – and President of BBC Worldwide North America, has been named CEO of mitú, the leading digital media brand for Latino millennials.
Scannell brings to the company a track record of successfully launching and scaling some of the most enduring franchises and innovative platforms in youth entertainment. During his tenure at Nickelodeon, Scannell oversaw the launch of iconic properties, including Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Rugrats, all of which became multi-billion-dollar global licensing powerhouses. Nickelodeon under Scannell was the top-rated network in cable for 10 straight years. In addition to his role at Nickelodeon, Scannell was the Vice Chairman of MTV networks and oversaw adult brands Spike and TV Land, among other businesses.
After leaving Nickelodeon, Scannell served as founding CEO of Next New Networks, a pioneer in the online video network space, partnering with independent web creators to produce and package innovative original web content. Next New Networks was acquired by YouTube in 2011. Scannell subsequently joined BBC Worldwide as President, North America, where he oversaw a portfolio that included the flagship cable channel BBC America, as well as sales of the vast BBC library and original shows via its LA-based original production group.
Scannell joins mitú as the company is rapidly expanding both its audience and their original content offerings. mitú is currently generating 650 million monthly views reaching 100 million monthly unique viewers. mitú is also the only Latino-targeted channel on Snapchat Discover and amongst the best performing channels. Other projects include the Netflix comedy special ‘They Can’t Deport Us All with Chingo Bling’, ‘Cholos Try’ on Comcast Watchable (2 seasons), and ‘What’s Good in Your Hood’ and ‘Mom’s Movie Review’ for Facebook Watch. The company has also licensed original series for partners such as Discovery Networks, Verizon’s Go90, NBC Universo and Spotify. mitú has raised more than $40 million from investors including Upfront Ventures, Comcast, WPP & Verizon.
Scannell will assume his position immediately and will be based at mitu’s headquarters in downtown Los Angeles.
Photo c/o: Variety