Staro (pictured) joined the channel in 2008 as vice president of research, where she was responsible for leading insight initiatives and building the research team “from the ground up”

She was previously at parent company Discovery, which she joined in 2004 and served as director of research and on-air planning for Discovery Health and Fit TV.

Earlier in her career Staro held strategic roles at Procter & Gamble and 180s, a firm that manufactures earwarmers and iPhone-compatible gloves.

TLC general manager Amy Winter said: “Laura has been a critical part of TLC’s strategy team, leading the network to successfully launch brand-defining series like Cake Boss and the Police Women franchise, while providing insight to improve upon key brands, like LA Ink and Say Yes To The Dress. Her expertise is invaluable.”