By James Caldwell, Torch assistant editor

TNA announced Tuesday the official appointment of Bruce Prichard to Senior Vice President of Programming and Talent Relations.

Prichard will have three main responsibilities in his role: talent relations and talent development behind the scenes, overseeing the creative product for television, and overseeing the development of new TV shows.

Although not mentioned in the press release, Prichard is replacing Vince Russo as head of creative. As we reported last week, the official creative team change-over to Prichard was expected to take place at this week's TV tapings following the Bound for Glory PPV.

Prichard said in a press release that part of his focus will be developing future TNA wrestlers, expanding the roster, and "looking for new and adventurous additions to our television product."

The full press release is below.

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NASHVILLE, TN - (October 18, 2011) TNA Entertainment, home of TNA IMPACT WRESLTING, one of the top-rated programs on Spike TV announces the appointment of Bruce Prichard as Senior Vice President Programming and Talent Relations. Prichard is one of the most storied professionals in the world of pro wrestling. His 30+ years in the business includes an extensive list of achievements.

“TNA is gaining such a wealth of knowledge and insight as we continue to grow our business with the addition of Bruce to our senior management staff,” states TNA President Dixie Carter. “This appointment is another indication to the community that TNA's Impact Wrestling is gaining ground across all platforms; we are thrilled that Bruce is bringing his knowledge in television production, writing and talent relations to TNA.”

Prior to joining TNA Entertainment, Prichard managed production of live domestic and international television programming for WWE Inc./Titan Sports where he also served as a writer and on air talent for the wrestling organization. Based in Houston, Texas, Prichard will oversee talent relations, talent scouting and development, as well as, overseeing the creative direction of the company.

“I am looking forward to working with the exemplary talent both in front of the camera and behind the scenes at TNA. There are some exciting new ventures in progress as we speak involving the tremendous roster of current TNA superstars, as well as, development for the TNA superstars of the future,” says Prichard. “We are expanding our roster and looking for new and adventurous additions to our television product. I welcome the challenge and am invigorated by the endless opportunities this company provides. Our fan base for our brand continues to grow and I am proud to be a part of it.”

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