euro news2005v3_news 23/05/2013 17:43 Page 6
Mockridge to head Virgin Media
Former News International chief Tom Mockridge is to become CEO of Virgin Media on the closing of Liberty Global’s proposed acquisition of Virgin Media, expected in June. Mockridge has served in several senior management roles over the course of more than two decades with News Corporation, including chief executive of European Television operations, chief executive of Sky Italia, and most recently chief executive of News International. Mockridge will succeed Neil Berkett, who will continue in his role as CEO of Virgin Media until closing of the transaction, having previously announced his intention to retire. Mike Fries, president and CEO of Liberty Global, said that Mockridge would bring to Virgin Media a breadth of experience in the pay-TV industry, both in the UK and throughout Europe. “I have known and worked with Tom for nearly 15 years and have always admired his leadership and operating success in a number of highly competitive media markets. We are fortunate to bring an executive of Tom’s talent and experience in to lead Virgin Media in its next phase of growth. I’d also like to wish Neil Berkett all the best in his future endeavours. He has done an outstanding job at Virgin Media and will be missed by all.” Mockridge said: “I keenly anticipate joining the team as it continues to deliver the cutting-edge TV and broad-
band products and services that excite and inspire its customers across the UK. I’m also excited to become part of the Liberty Global family and look forward to working closely with Mike and his team as they continue to build the world’s largest cable platform.” As CEO of Virgin Media after the closing, Mockridge will report to Fries, as well as to a newly formed operating committee comprised of Fries, Diederik Karsten, EVP, European broadband operations, and Balan Nair, EVP and CTO.
Sky Deutschland extends Premier League rights
Sky Deutschland has extended its multi-year agreement with the English Premier League. Sky Deutschland will continue to show three matches live each match day. In addition to live broadcasts, Sky D will also air a highlight magazine show from each match day. Burkhard Weber, SVP sports at Sky Deutschland, said the Premier League was an essential part of its Sport Paket. “We are very pleased that we can continue presenting one of the best leagues in Europe to our customers for the next years, live and exclusively on Sky,” he added. Sky also secured the exclusive Internet and mobile rights for Germany and Austria, making the English Premier League available with Sky Go via the Internet, iPad, iPhone, iPod and Xbox 360.
Europe are able to receive a TV Everywhere/multiscreen service. In Eastern Europe, multiscreen availability topped 25% of pay-TV households in early 2013. Howeve