McGrath Stepping Down As MTV CEO

Judy McGrath is stepping down as CEO of MTV Networks after 30 years with the company to take on new challenges.

“I leave with pride, joy and gratitude for the ride of a lifetime,” she said in a May 5 statement. “I especially thank my friends and colleagues on the senior team, who will continue to lead a kick-ass organization.”

McGrath started out as a copywriter when MTV launched in 1981 and worked her way up the ranks.

She was named MTV Networks chairwoman and CEO in 2004 and is credited with leading the television station back to relevancy and high ratings with programming such as “Jersey Shore” and “16 and Pregnant.”