Sci-Fi Channel executive Robert Swartz has been named vice president of original series for Cartoon Network, it was announced Friday by Robert Sorcher, chief content officer for the network.
Swartz's hiring marks the consolidation of the network's development andcurrent series departments under one roof at Cartoon Network Studios in Burbank.
Swartz will start on March 17, and be based at the studio in Burbank, reporting directly to Sorcher.
Along with leading development and current teams, Swartz will oversee development of all of Cartoon Network's animated, live-action and alternative series.
He will be responsible for identifying new creative talent to develop for Cartoon Network and Cartoon Network Studios.
"Rob brings a fresh perspective to the Kids arena and knows development across all formats," said Sorcher. "Having our entire development and current teams on the West Coast will allow us to extend our relationships with the creative community and rapidly expand our slate of series and productions."
Swartz was vice president of alternative programming for the Sci-Fi Channel, where he was responsible for the development and production of reality, game/competition, late night and other alternative programming.
He also developed and launched Destination Truth, the network's highly rated new reality series and was responsible for overseeing the very successful Ghost Hunter franchise.
Swartz worked on content development for Sci-Fi's broadband video network Pulse and has held prior positions at NBC Entertainment and Walt Disney/Touchstone Television.
