MUMBAI: Fox Networks Group?s president, COO David Haslingden has decided to step down at the end of the calendar year in order to return to Australia and spend more time with his family.

Haslingden was instrumental in the creation and growth of Fox International Channels (Fic), a business unit that now encompasses more than 350 channels in over 55 countries. Prior to his current role, he was CEO of both FIC and National Geographic Channels Worldwide for more than 10 years, and has served News Corporation in a variety of executive roles in the U.S., Asia, Australia and Europe over the past two decades.

News Corp president, COO Chase Carey commented, "Since joining News Corporation, David has been a driving force in the evolution of the pay-TV industry in every corner of the world. His leadership in the international television marketplace has uniquely positioned Fox to succeed for years to come in what has quickly become one of our company?s fastest-growing business segments. I respect his decision to return to Australia to spend more time with his family, and we wish him nothing but the best during the next phase of his career."

Fox Networks Group chairman, CEO Peter Rice commented, ?David has built an incredible foundation for us domestically and across Asia, Australia Europe and the Middle East. As we look to continue FNG?s incredible growth trajectory, our future successes will in many ways be the result of David?s innovative leadership over the last several years. He will be missed by all of us."