RTS Announces New Appointments

The Royal Television Society (RTS) has announced the appointment of a new Chair and Vice Chair to its Board of Trustees.

Tom Mockridge has been appointed Chair and he takes up the role with immediate effect. He succeeds ITN CEO John Hardie, who has reached the end of his term.

Tom is CEO of Virgin Media and a member of the Executive Leadership Team of parent company Liberty Global. He joined Liberty Global in June 2013 following the acquisition of Virgin Media.

Simon Pitts, Managing Director of Online, Pay TV, Interactive & Technology, ITV, has been appointed Vice Chair. He takes over from Tim Davie, CEO, BBC Worldwide & Director, Global. Tim will remain on the Board of Trustees alongside Mike Green, David Lowen, Lynn Barlow, Graham McWilliam, Jane Turton and Rob Woodward.

In addition, a search for a new President is underway to replace Sir Peter Bazalgette who is stepping down after six years.

Theresa Wise, CEO, RTS, said: "Over the last few years the RTS has seen extensive growth and change. John Hardie has been fundamental in this and I would like to thank him for his extraordinary contribution in helping me to transform the Society. Tim has also been a fantastically supportive member of the team and I look forward to continuing to work with him on the Board. I would also like to thank Sir Peter Bazalgette. Over the past six years he has provided vital support to the RTS and will be missed.

"Tom has a strong record for managing and chairing media companies and extensive industry knowledge. It is a honour to have a figure with Tom's experience Chairing the Board of Trustees and I look forward to working with him moving forward. Simon's expertise and understanding of our operations made him the perfect candidate and I am delighted he has agreed to extend his role and be Vice Chair."

John Hardie, ITN CEO and outgoing RTS Chair, added: "The RTS is a terrific advocate and champion for a sector whose creative, regulatory and commercial landscape is constantly shifting. In this period of great change, my five-year tenure as Chair has been deeply rewarding and I believe that the RTS has contributed considerably to how we as an industry respond to the challenges and opportunities before us. I have no doubt that Tom will be an excellent Chair and will continue to encourage debate and collaboration in our sector."

www.rts.org.uk

(JP/LM)