Fox hires Hannelie Bekker to run African operation

Fox International Channels (FIC) has named former Wananchi Programming managing director Hannelie Bekker as managing director of FIC Africa.

Bekker, who will be responsible for all FIC brands in Africa, including Fox, Fox Crime, Fox Movies, FX, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo Wild, National Geographic Gold, Fox Sports, Fox Sports 2 and Baby TV, will be based in FIC’s Johannesburg office and will report to Adam Theiler, executive vice-president for southern Europe and Africa.

Fox said Bekker’s appointment would help consolidate its business development and coverage across Africa.

As MD of Wananchi Programming, Bekker was in charge of the Zuku pay TV and triple-play service, based in Nairobi, and responsible for the launch of nine channels and a portfolio of original local content.

“Hannelie has the same dynamic spirit that we all share at FIC. She will be an extraordinary asset to FIC, and will lead and extend our operation throughout Africa, which is a key market with a mature business operation and strong brand and affiliate distribution,” said Theiler.

“Hannelie’s experience and track record in senior roles at numerous TV production companies throughout Africa not only make her the best possible person to manage FIC Africa, but also a prominent figure within Africa’s TV industry who can help FIC to consolidate its objectives in the region. I am delighted to welcome Hannelie to our executive team.”