ITV integrates online and programming operations

ITV is integrating its online assets into its programming operations, under the direction of Peter Fincham, director of television, channels and online.

The restructure will see all of ITV’s online assets – which include video streaming and ITV programming, ITV.com, ITV Local, project Kangaroo, Friends Reunited, as well as interactive and gaming – fully integrated with ITV’s family of broadcast channels.

The broadcaster said that this will allow much closer co-operation between the broadcasting and online divisions, consistent with the 360° approach of its turnaround strategy.

Jeff Henry, managing director of ITV Consumer, will oversee the transition process and has announced that he intends to stand down once this has been completed.

SDN, the DTT multiplex operator, will report to director of group development & strategy, Carolyn Fairbairn.

Michael Grade, ITV executive chairman, said: “Thanks to Jeff Henry and his team, this year our online businesses, in particular itv.com which is now a channel in its own right, have gone from strength to strength and we have seen unprecedented online growth in unique users and video views. Jeff has created valuable new revenue streams that we will continue to develop.

“With content at the heart of our turnaround strategy, it now makes sense to integrate fully all our platforms to ensure the very best of our content is available to viewers wherever they wish to view it. It is testament to Jeff Henry’s enormous commitment and success that we are able to do this now, ahead of our schedule, and I would personally like to thank Jeff for his contribution to ITV.”

Ben McOwen Wilson is appointed director of online with responsibility for all ITV’s new media businesses with immediate effect, reporting to Peter Fincham.

ITV: 020 7843 8000 www.itv.com