ABC TV Appoints New Head Of Strategy And Digital

Following yesterday's announcement of new arts and cultural program The Mix, ABC TV director of TV Richard Finlayson has today revealed the appointment of former Foxtel strategist Rebecca Heap to the newly created role of Head of TV Strategy and Digital Products.

Heap will join the national broadcaster on May 19 and will be responsible for heading up its TV division's digital transformation and strategic planning functions.

In addition to her work as Director of Content and Partnerships at Foxtel, Heap spent time working with Austar as General Manager of Strategy and Programming, and, before that, as a management consultant at internationally renowned firm AT Kearney.

"My nine years in subscription TV has been fantastic and fostered a real passion for content,” Heap said in a statement.

“I'm thrilled to be in a role that will combine TV strategy and digital products and feel privileged to be joining the ABC with its strong heritage, award-winning programs, innovative digital assets and, most importantly, it's unique connection with the Australian audience."

 For Finlayson's money, Heap is a natural selection for the role, which he sees as being vital for the future development of ABC TV.

“Her skills and perspective will be important as we position the ABC for an environment where increasingly, delivery of video content is via IP networks and the relationship with the audience is one-to-one,” he said in a statement.

“ABC TV has been a remarkable innovator in online video and is still the market leader with its iview platform and successful mobile apps. Now, it's time to bring those skills into the very centre of our TV team and ensure we continue to adapt to changing audience needs.”