Shaun Gregory steps down as Blyk’s CEO

Blyk has announced that its UK CEO Shaun Gregory is stepping down and will be replaced by the free mobile network’s current co-founder and executive director, Antti Ohrling.

Gregory’s departure, which is thought to be due to personal reasons, comes as the company plans a organisation restructure and adds an extra €40 million in funding to its “international expansion” plans.

Ohrling said: “In 2008 Blyk achieved milestones in member and advertiser growth in the UK and it was a pivotal year for Blyk in demonstrating that the model works for both young people and advertisers alike. We thank Shaun for his contribution to this success.”

Ohrling co-founded the mobile network for young people, which is funded by advertising, in 2006 with former Nokia president Pekka Ala-Pietila.

Blyk said: “Ohrling’s move to the top spot in the UK will ensure that the company’s innovative model continues to be a leading force in UK youth media.”

Meanwhile, Ala-Pietila is set to lead Blyk’s international media partnering approach and will be responsible for ensuring new growth opportunities and global demand for its media model.

Blyk: www.blyk.co.uk