Comcast names Burke next CEO of NBC Universal

Comcast chief operating officer Stephen Burke will succeed Jeff Zucker as chief executive of NBC Universal, the cable giant announced Monday.

Current NBC chief Jeff Zucker announced he will be leaving the firm after 24 years on Friday. Burke will take over once Comcast's purchase of a majority stake from GE is completed; the government is expected to greenlight the deal later this year.

“Steve Burke is an experienced, talented and visionary leader with over 25 years in the media and entertainment industry. Steve is one of the most well-respected executives in the industry, and I am confident that he will lead NBCU forward to a new era of growth," Comcast chief executive Brian Roberts said.

Burke joined Comcast in 1998 as president of Comcast Cable and has been credited with helping the firm become the nation's largest cable provider. Before joining Comcast he served in a variety of positions at Disney including president of ABC Broadcasting. He also serves on the board of Berkshire Hathway, whose CEO Warren Buffett praised his elevation.

“I have known Steve Burke for many years and greatly respect him. He has deep expertise in this industry and I am very confident that he will be a strong leader for NBC Universal,” said GE chief executive Jeff Immelt.