MTV, the American basic cable and satellite channel, announced on Wednesday that Sean Atkins, GM of Discovery Communications and exec VP, digital media strategy, will be taking charge as new president of the cable network.

As per reports, Atkins will report to Doug Herzog, president of the Viacom Music and Entertainment Group. On the other hand, MTV programming co-heads Mina Lefevre and Lauren Dolgen (head of reality and exec VP series development) will report directly to Atkins.

Herzog said in a statement that Sean is smart, creative, passionate and remarkably energized about the industry. "The strength of MTV lies in its ability to constantly reinvent, and Sean's forward-thinking, versatile leadership will ensure our brand and business continue to evolve and deliver for our audience", said Herzog.

Atkins during his tenure at Discovery was head of the Discovery Studios' production unit and oversaw series, including Penn & Teller Tell a Lie, King of the Crown and more. In addition, working as the GM and exec VP digital media and strategy, Atkins was responsible for driving online video strategy and networks, including Revision3, SourceFed, Discovery News and Test Tube.

Before starting work with Discovery, Atkins was senior VP, digital media at HBO, where he helped conceptualize what eventually became HBOGo. Before HBO, he served as head of programming and development at Yahoo Entertainment.

News of Friedman's departure comes as Viacom continues to undergo a corporate makeover following rounds of layoffs across the company. Back in July, MTV also saw president of programming Susanne Daniels exit. MTV Networks Music & Logo Group president Van Toffler also departed the company in February following a 28-year run with the company.