Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) has named Pierluigi Gazzolo as president of its Americas division.

Gazzolo, who previously held the role of chief operating officer, will be responsible for all VIMN operations across Latin America, Canada and the US Hispanic market.

He will oversee the expansion of VIMN’s portfolio of TV channels including Paramount Channel in the region as well as investment in original local productions for MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central.

Bob Bakish, VIMN president and chief executive, said: “Pier has been an outstanding leader within our business for a number of years, and I’m thrilled he will now be focusing his talent and experience on the vitally important role of overseeing the Americas’ business full-time.

“Prior to becoming COO, he was instrumental in establishing our business across the Americas and setting it on a path to growth. He is returning to take charge of a much larger operation that still has significant scope to expand,” added Bakish.

Gazzolo will move from New York to Miami, reporting into Bakish. VIMN is currently searching for a new chief operating officer.