BBC Worldwide North America has appointed Sergei Kuharsky to the position of executive vice president, franchise and digital enterprises.

In his new role, Kuharsky will be responsible for growing revenue across the business in BBC Worldwide’s digital enterprise and franchise management portfolio, which includes e-commerce, home entertainment, consumer products, live events, retail and BBC Learning.

Additionally, he will work to build on existing partnership and forging new ones for such key franchises such as “Top Gear,” “Doctor Who” and BBC Earth.

Khuarsky joined BBC Worldwide North America in April 2016 and most recently served as senior vice president of strategy and business development. Prior to joining the company, he worked at Scripps Networks Interactive, where during his tenure he led the Food Network’s expansion strategy and build the company’s consumer products portfolio. He has also held positions with In Demand Networks, Nickelodeon, Warner Home Entertainment and Disney Home Video.

"Sergei has an impressive track record of astutely building brands by seamlessly extending them into products and experiences that deepen fan connections," says Ann Sarnoff, president, BBC Worldwide North America. "I've worked with Sergei on and off for many years and have no doubt that he will build the BBC brands and business across the U.S. and Canada."