Mark Garner, who became a noted figure in the streaming business over a 25-year run at A+E Global Media, is segueing into a consulting role at the company.

The EVP and head of global FAST channels, has spent 35 years in the media industry. In addition to consulting on select strategic and special projects, Garner will also pursue independent projects.

The company made the announcement during the StreamTV Show in Denver, an annual conference where Garner has been a fixture.

“Mark has been an important part of A+E Global Media’s evolution for more than two decades, helping the company navigate major shifts in the distribution landscape and build meaningful new business across emerging platforms,” said Steve MacDonald, President, Global Content Licensing & International. “From traditional distribution to SVOD, AVOD and FAST, Mark has consistently drawn on an entrepreneurial approach, deep partner relationships and a clear understanding of where the business is headed. We are grateful for his many contributions and pleased to continue working with him on new initiatives.”

In contrast with most of its media rivals, A+E, a joint venture of Disney and Hearst, stayed away from general-entertainment subscription streaming and instead emphasized various free and ad-supported routes for its programming.
 
Garner was a key part of A+E’s efforts to wring revenue from its extensive library of owned and original content across digital streaming and emerging platforms. In 2023, he was named to the EVP post and put in charge of the company’s investments in FAST.

“It has been a privilege to spend the past 25 years at A+E Global Media, working alongside talented colleagues and valued partners through some of the most transformative periods in our industry,” said Garner. “I am incredibly proud of what we have built together, from new distribution models to businesses that helped extend the reach and value of A+E’s brands and content. As I begin this next chapter, I look forward to staying close to the business, engaging with new ideas and strategic opportunities, and continuing to support A+E as a consultant.”
 
In prior exec posts, Garner helped the company explore emerging areas like podcasting and out-of-home distribution.
 
Before joining A+E, Garner worked as an executive at several start-up ventures, including a satellite broadcast network based in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he built the network’s distribution. After his time in South Africa, he led business development efforts for a direct-to-consumer online automotive sales venture. Garner also held positions at MTV Networks and AT&T in sales, marketing and product management.