Matthew Singerman Joins WWE

Former Reelz Channel programming executive Matthew Singerman has joined the WWE as executive vice president of programming, the network announced Tuesday.

Singerman in his newly created role will be responsible for the strategic development of WWE content and scheduling across all distribution platforms, including a potential WWE Network, said WWE officials. Singerman will report directly to WWE chairman and CEO Vince McMahon.

Prior to his most recent stint a consultant to such networks as NFL Network, Nuvo, Pivot and Back9 Network, Singerman served as senior vice president of programming for Reelz Channel where he oversaw programming, development and acquisitions, including the network's Emmy-award winning series The Kennedys. Prior to Reelz, Singerman also held senior level programming positions at TV Guide Network and Fox News Channel.

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.