North to step down as managing director of Freeview

After four years in the role, Guy North, managing director of Freeview, has announced he will be leaving his role October this year.

North joined as marketing and communications director in 2011, before his appointment to managing director in June 2014. He spearheaded the launch of Freeview Play in 2015, which was accompanied by a full brand relaunch to take Freeview into the connected world.

“It’s been a privilege to lead the UK’s best loved TV platform,” said North.

“The Freeview brand and platform is now in better shape than ever to compete in a rapidly changing environment. I’m proud to leave it in this strong position as I go on to explore new adventures and opportunities.”

Rufus Radcliffe, chairman of the Freeview board, praised North for his “dedication to Freeview”.

“As Managing Director, he’s been the driving force behind Freeview’s reinvention for a digital age, securing the future of free-to-view TV for UK viewers. I wish him the very best for the future,” he added.

There are no plans to replace North – following a new shareholder agreement announced earlier this month, Freeview will work much closer with Digital UK, which will lead on strategy and product development while Freeview takes charge of marketing and coms.

After North’s departure, marketing director Owen Jenkinson will report directly to the Freeview board and hold responsibility for all marketing and communications activity.