Elena Balmont Appointed General Manager of VIMN for Russia & CIS

MOSCOW – Elena Balmont has been appointed general manager of Viacom International Media Networks Russia & CIS, VIMN announced.

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Joining from Content Union LLC where she was deputy CEO, Balmont, is replacing Nicholas Walters, who is to leave VIMN in December to pursue a new entrepreneurial venture.

Based in Moscow, Balmont will be in charge of VIMN’s operational and strategic management in the fast growing market of Russia and CIS, the company said, adding that she will also be seeking out new opportunities to grow the business further in the region, reporting to David Lynn, executive vice president & managing director, VIMN UK, Australia, Russia & Eastern Europe.

“Russia is a top priority for VIMN with excellent momentum already building across the business including milestone successes in 2012 with the launch of Paramount Comedy and Nickelodeon’s increased distribution to more than 6 million households,” Lynn said in a statement. “Elena’s expert insight and relationships within the Russian market, coupled with her tremendous track record will be instrumental in driving VIMN’s next phase of growth and expansion.”

“It’s a great time to join Viacom International Media Networks, home to some of the world’s biggest brands and best-loved properties that are really resonating with local Russian audiences,” added Balmont. “I have inherited a talented team at a time of real opportunity and I’m looking forward to guiding them forward as we look to take the business to the next level.”

VIMN is currently operating 11 channels in the region, including global brands Nickelodeon, Paramount Comedy and MTV, operated under license through the local partner ProfMedia.