In a move that I expected, BET Networks today announced that it has appointed Stephen Hill as President of Programming.

You’ll recall that Loretha Jones exited the President of Original Programming position in September, after 6 years in service, spearheading the network’s recent moves into original scripted programming.

Reasons for her departure were not provided.

In what the BET press release calls a "newly created position," Hill – who was most recently President of Music Programming & Specials at BET – will now oversee Original Programming, Music Programming & Specials, and the BET News teams responsible for creating, developing, and producing programming across BET. 

Hill also previously served as a member of the team that successfully launched “Real Husbands Of Hollywood," and as Executive Vice President of Entertainment and Music Programming, before being promoted to President of Music Programming & Specials.

He will report to Debra L. Lee, Chairman and CEO of BET Networks, and will continue to be based in New York.

“BET has always been a trailblazer and it’s a privilege to be at the helm of programming for a brand that has delivered shows that have, literally, changed the face of television. We will develop and produce fresh, audience-thrilling programming to complement our strong slate of new original content, returning hits and mega-specials,” said Stephen Hill. “I look forward to continuing to link arms with our massively talented team as we work together, marching towards BET’s next successes.”

"I have worked with Stephen for over 15 years, and his passion for the BET Brand has been apparent from the very beginning. He has grown our music shows and specials into iconic and highly-rated programs beloved by our audience,” said Debra L. Lee, Chairman and CEO, BET Networks. “Over the past several years, he has expanded his role into scripted programming, launching our hit series ‘Real Husbands of Hollywood.’ He is well-qualified and ready for this new challenge and I am excited to have him in this new role.”

Prior to joining BET Networks, Hill was the Director of Music Programming at MTV. And before that, he served as the executive producer for the "Tom Joyner Morning Show."

Hill is a graduate of Brown University and a native of Washington, D.C.

Congrats Mr Hill! Now the work begins…