James Murdoch Takes On Senior News Corp Role

James Murdoch is stepping down as chief executive of BSkyB to take up a position overseeing all of News Corps’ media operations in Europe and Asia.

Jeremy Darroch, previously Sky’s chief financial officer, will take over as chief executive.

Murdoch’s new role, which puts him in pole position to succeed his father, will see him take control of News Corps’ UK newspapers including the Sun and the Times and other assets such as Sky Italia.

He will also become non-executive chairman of BSkyB, taking over from his father.

James Murdoch said: “The team at Sky has demonstrated the success that can be achieved with an appetite for change and a single-minded focus on customers.

“I am pleased to have the opportunity to become non-executive chairman and I look forward to supporting Jeremy in his role as chief executive. Sky’s transformation is progressing well and both Jeremy and I are committed to seeing it through.”

Jeremy Darroch said: “Few companies of Sky’s scale have its capacity for moving quickly, seizing opportunities and thriving on a culture of change. Sky’s success is a testament to the talent of my colleagues and I’m excited and privileged to lead a company that touches so many families across the UK and Ireland.

“We are well positioned and I am committed to pursuing a strategy that further deepens our customer relationships and creates significant value for shareholders.”

News International has also confirmed that James Harding, currently business editor at the Times, will now become the paper’s new editor, beginning next week.

Sky: 08702 40 40 40 www.sky.com