Connected TV platform YouView has hired Cisco VP Nick Thexton as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO).
Thexton is currently VP and CTO at Cisco’s Video Software Solutions group and previously served as CTO at subscription software specialists NDS.
In a statement announcing Thexton’s appointment, YouView highlighted his past involvement in developing the dynamic ad insertion technology used in Sky’s ‘Adsmart’ service and work on cloud-based distribution of video content.
His hiring provides YouView with a new source of in-house knowledge which it can exploit to help VOD services such as ITV Player and 4OD improve the advertising they offer around catch-up content.
YouView shareholder BT has previously said it’s considering a greater use of cloud-based services, including replacing common PVR functions on set top boxes.
Thexton’s experience in cloud services could also help realise these ambitions.
A renewed funding agreement between BT and other shareholders, including the BBC, ITV and TalkTalk, is helping fund a major recruitment boost at YouView, which will see“more than 50 of the best” product designers, developers and test engineers join its workforce.
Richard Halton, CEO, YouView said, “We are delighted that Nick is joining as our new CTO, he brings deep knowledge of the sector and a global perspective to an already well established technology team.
“His appointment combined with the backing of all seven shareholders for another five years, with the impetus of increased investment makes this an exciting time to be part of the YouView story.”
Speaking to SEENIT following the announcement, Halton said users could expect to see the BBC’s Connected Red Button service arrive on their set top boxes “soon”, although he declined to provide a specific date.