[By NBC-1TV H. J Yook] Turner executive Rani Raad will become Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, CNN International, it was announced today by Gerhard Zeiler, President of Turner Broadcasting System International, parent company of CNN International.

Raad will be responsible for the commercial strategy and vision of CNN International and will oversee its advertising sales, content sales, business development, international research and marketing activities. Additionally, Raad will keep his current responsibilities, managing Turner Broadcasting’s operations in Turkey, the Middle East and Africa.

This appointment follows a decision to directly align all of CNN’s international commercial activity into one organization. It comes as CNN demonstrates a clear leadership position in all key independent viewing surveys, confirming CNN as a compelling choice for viewers, which in turn makes it a highly attractive association for commercial partners.

Gerhard Zeiler, President Turner Broadcasting System International, said: “We are simplifying the organisation and establishing clear responsibilities. Rani is the logical choice for this ambitious challenge due to his track record leading CNN’s global commercial initiatives and his vast international network.”

Rani Raad said: “Aligning the commercial streams for the world’s leading international news brand will help us deliver best-in-class solutions for our partners across all the diverse platforms where CNN has become a valued and ubiquitous presence.”