MTV has expanded the programming portfolio of 18-year vet Lauren Dolgen in the wake of layoffs in its East Coast office.
Dolgen will oversee all reality programming and serve as exec VP of series development, based in Santa Monica. She reports to MTV programming prez Susanne Daniels.
“Lauren eats sleeps and breathes pop culture, creativity, and storytelling, and her passion is evident in the many hit series she’s brought to air,” Daniels said. “With Lauren’s expertise and unique sensibility, we know our reality development teams will thrive under her unified leadership.”
Dolgen’s promotion from the post of West Coast head of reality comes after layoffs last week that led to the departures of several top East Coast execs. Dave Sirulnick headed news, documentaries and specials for the cabler. Elli Hakami was head of current programming.
With the new structure, Dolgen will be the unscripted counterpart in Santa Monica to Mina Lefevre, senior VP and head of scripted development.
Dolgen’s track record at MTV during her long run includes shepherding the “16 and Pregnant” and “Teen Mom” franchises, along with numerous specials and events.
