Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/2010/09/10/bbc_worldwide_iplayer_mark_smith/
Beeb creates new global iPlayer post
DIY meat
Posted in Legal, 10th September 2010 12:43 GMT
The Worldwide wing of the BBC has hired Mark Smith as its global iPlayer launch director, in its latest attempt to get its video-on-demand service off the ground outside the UK.
That plan is scheduled for next year, but it needs approval first. So Smith’s job is presumably to push for approval of the overseas extension.
The Beeb’s Future Media and Technology boss Erik Huggers created the role. Smith’s hiring was an internal one – he had been the acting general manager for BBC programmes and on-demand with responsibility for BBC online products, including the iPlayer.
Prior to joining Auntie in 2008, Smith worked for rival television broadcaster BSkyB.
He will report to BBC.com managing director Luke Bradley-Jones, who said in a statement:
“We’re thrilled to have Mark on board. His proven knowledge and experience in on-demand programming is exactly what we need to lead this exciting yet complex project. This new service is a key strand of our multiplatform content strategy and a great new opportunity for British shows.”
Earlier this week the Beeb confirmed that it had hired Daniel Danker as its general manager for programmes and on-demand telly, effectively bringing Smith's acting role in that position to an end. ®