New York, NY – July 30, 2008 – The Independent Film Channel (IFC) has promoted Craig Parks to vice president of digital media. In his new role, Mr. Parks is responsible for the oversight and strategic direction of the networks’ alternative platforms including IFC.com, IFC syndicated digital content and IFC Free, the network’s video on demand service. Parks former position at IFC was vice president branded entertainment and business development. He reports to Jennifer Caserta, IFC’s executive vice president and general manager.
"IFC has taken bold strides in defining and executing our digital strategies to deliver a multi-platform, alternative content driven experience for our audience," said Jennifer Caserta, executive vice president and general manager of IFC. "Craig’s passion and vision for IFC’s digital platforms is perfectly aligned to lead this vital component of our brand and build on its growing success."
As part of his oversight of the network’s alternative digital platforms, Parks will spearhead the strategy, planning and execution of original content for IFC.com and IFC Free as well as manage the evolution of the brand on both platforms through creative marketing strategies and initiatives. In addition, Parks will lead the development and production of IFC Media Lab, the network’s incubator for aspiring filmmakers.
Prior to joining IFC, Parks served as executive producer and creative director of specials projects in the on-air and promotions department of Rainbow Media Holdings LLC, the parent company of IFC. During this time, he was instrumental in developing the sponsorship and branded entertainment model that IFC uses today. Previously, Parks was an executive producer for ABC Family and also held positions at MTV and VH-1.
Parks currently lives with his wife in Brooklyn, NY. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in American studies at the University of Florida and did his graduate work in film studies at the University of Texas.
About IFC
IFC (The Independent Film Channel) is the first and only network dedicated to independent film and related programming, 24 hours a day, uncut and uncensored. Operating under the mantra ’always, uncut,’ IFC presents feature-length films, "cult classics," thought-provoking original documentaries such as At the Death House Door and This Film Is Not Yet Rated, shorts, animated series, exclusive web series, and television’s most comprehensive independent film library. The network also offers some of the most innovative and edgy original series on television, including the sketch comedy "The Whitest Kids U’ Know." Providing a voice for independent thought not found anywhere else on television, IFC broadens the audience for independent film and supports the independent film community through its exclusive live coverage of notable film events like the Independent Spirit Awards. The network’s On Demand offering, IFC Free, gives audiences the opportunity to watch premieres of all of IFC’s original series in HD before they air on the linear network. IFC is a subsidiary of Rainbow Media Holdings LLC.
Rainbow Media Holdings LLC
Rainbow Media Holdings LLC is a subsidiary of Cablevision Systems Corporation (NYSE: CVC). Rainbow Media is a leading producer of targeted, multi-platform content for global distribution, creating and managing some of the world’s most compelling and dynamic entertainment brands, including AMC, IFC, WE tv, Sundance Channel, LIFESKOOL, SPORTSKOOL, and VOOM HD Networks. Through IFC Entertainment, Rainbow Media also owns and manages the following: IFC Films, a leading distribution company for independent film; IFC Productions, a feature film production company that provides financing for select independent film projects; and IFC Center, a three screen, state-of-the-art cinema in the heart of New York’s Greenwich Village. Rainbow Media also operates Rainbow Advertising Sales Corporation, its advertising sales company; Rainbow Network Communications, its full service network programming origination and distribution company; and 11 Penn TV, a company that manages Rainbow Media’s NYC studios and post-production facilities.