History channel poaches BBC marketer

Thu, 11 Jan 2007

The History Channel UK has pointed BBC marketer James Pestell to the new role of marketing director. He will take over the role in April.

Pestell, who is currently head of marketing for BBC2, will be responsible for bringing together the company's communications strategy, including advertising, marketing and branding.

Geoff Metzger, managing director of the channel, says: "Expansion with new channels, new formats and on new platforms will be key growth drivers for our business in the next five years. James' considerable strategy and operational experience at the BBC, as well as his significant experience in positioning and launching new brands are a great addition to our business development."

Pestell took over the marketing role at BBC2 in 2003 and was previously head of marketing at BBC4 after launching the channel in 2001. He joined the BBC as marketing manager for Radio 3.

The History Channel is a joint venture between A&E Television Networks and BSkyB. It is available on satellite and cable across the UK, Ireland, sub-Saharan Africa and Greece.