Pac-12 Networks President Lydia Murphy-Stephans To Step Down in June

Pac-12 Networks President Lydia Murphy-Stephans will step down from her post in June. Murphy-Stephans plans to launch a media advisory company later in the year, and in that capacity will act as a consultant to Pac-12 Networks. The former Olympic speed skater became the first woman to head a national sports network when she was named to the post at Pac-12 Networks in Dec. 2011.

“As Pac-12 Networks’ first general manager, Lydia’s energy and leadership were critical in turning our ambitious vision into a reality,” said Commissioner Larry Scott. “Then, upon becoming Networks president, she made history by becoming the first woman to head a national sports network. Under Lydia’s leadership, Pac-12 Networks grew dramatically both in programming and distribution reach, serving millions of our fans, helping to support our member universities, and providing unprecedented exposure to our women and Olympic student-athletes.”

Commenting on her tenure, as well as her plans for the future, Murphy-Stephans said: “I’m very proud of what we accomplished at Pac-12 Networks. We built the networks from the ground up with a unique ownership model that has created long-term value for the Pac-12 universities. We provided unprecedented exposure to women’s sports and Olympic athletes – something especially important to me. Now, with Pac-12 Networks firmly established and successful, it’s the perfect time for me to launch my new business and explore all kinds of opportunities across the media landscape.”

During Lydia’s tenure, Pac-12 Networks achievements included producing and distributing 850 live sporting events each year (more than any other conference network); sward-winning studio and feature programming; half of programming devoted to women’s and Olympic sports; profitable every year from inception; growth in distribution from our original four distribution partners (Comcast, TimeWarner, Cox, and Bright House) to more than 75 national providers across cable, satellite, telco, and IP (over the top); cutting-edge production capabilities; innovative digital and multi-media platforms; a diverse and talented staff; and educational and internship opportunities for Pac-12 students.

Scott also noted, “on a personal level, Lydia has been a great colleague.  I have benefited daily from her deep knowledge of the industry and her wisdom, and I wish her every success in her new venture.”