MTV Networks International has appointed Roger James as senior vice president, general counsel for the international business including the UK and Ireland.

James moves up from his post as vice president of business and legal affairs for MTV Networks UK, Ireland and International to replace Sofia Ioannu, who was recently named as managing director of MTV Networks Latin America.

The role will see James, who is based in London, take control of all business and legal affairs including music and media licensing, compliance and government relations and supporting the company's joint ventures with Nickelodeon UK and Comedy Central UK.

Chief operating officer Pierluigi Gazzolo commented: "Roger is a great addition to our international team. Through his extensive experience in guiding our business and legal affairs divisions in the UK and Europe, he has developed a keen understanding of our brands. He has been instrumental in securing important agreements that further our business objectives and ensuring we are well positioned to manage the complexities of our ever-evolving industry."

James joined MTV in 1997 as legal counsel from legacy firm Richards Butler, where he was an associate.

Last October MTV Networks International appointed Sharifah Bailey as its head of business and legal affairs for emerging markets. Law firms that MTV has turned to for for external legal advice in the UK include Field Fisher Waterhouse.