ENGLEWOOD, Colo.,  June 25,  2004/Satnews/ Starz Encore Group LLC (Starz) promoted one marketing executive, Lauren Ruetz, and added three others, Gery English, Matt Emmons and Clif Watkins.

Lauren Ruetz was promoted to director of media strategy from marketing manager/media buying, and will now be reporting to David Charmatz, senior vice president research, analysis and strategy. Ruetz is responsible for developing and implementing Starz' national, local and trade advertising strategies. "Ruetz joined Starz in 2002 and her media expertise has been an incredible asset. I am pleased to announce this well-deserved promotion," stated Charmatz. "Her pursuit of both the most creative and efficient media solutions has increased the effectiveness of our affiliate programs as well as our branding efforts."

Ruetz is a 20-year veteran in the research, development and implementation of media communications programs. Prior to joining Starz, Ruetz served as vice president/media director for Thomas and Perkins in Denver. Ruetz holds a B.A. in Communications and Business from Marquette University.

Gery English is the new senior director brand strategy and will be leading the implementation of the STARZ! image campaign in 2005. English brings over 20 years of brand development and experience in managing fully-integrated campaigns for clients including Target, Apple Computer, Chrysler and TED, United Airline's new low cost operation. He has worked for well-respected advertising agencies including Martin Williams, Rapp Collins and McClain Finlon prior to joining Starz. English will report to Kelly Bumann.

As well as branding efforts, English will lead the project management of the broader brand rollout across internal communications groups, affiliates, on air and internal employees. English graduated with a B.S. degree from Arizona State University.

Matt Emmons joined Starz as the director of new product strategy reporting to Bumann. He will lead marketing strategy and program development for Starz On Demand working closely with Starz affiliate teams. Additionally, Emmons will be assisting Starz distribution partners in creating effective programs to drive usage and lower customer turnover. Most recently Emmons was the director of advanced video products for Adelphia Communications.

Emmons received his B.A. from Colorado State University and MBA from the University of Colorado in Technology Management.

Clif Watkins, formerly director video product management with Comcast, has joined Starz as director of affiliate marketing and will report to Nigel Sonariwo. Watkins will direct consumer and affiliate marketing strategies.

Prior to joining Starz, Watkins was director of video product management with Comcast Communications, Colorado Region, and has won the CTAM Mark Award (twice) and Beacon Award.

Watkins holds an undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina and a graduate degree from Webster University of Business.