Sky UK CEO Stepping Down

Stephen van Rooyen is exiting his role as CEO of Sky UK and Ireland and group chief commercial officer.

Van Rooyen is planning to depart at the end of February. Effective immediately, though, Sky’s UK and Ireland business will report directly to Group CEO Dana Strong.

Strong said: “I would like to thank Stephen for his very significant contribution to Sky over the past 18 years. He has played an instrumental role in developing and building our brand, developing and launching our products, taking our U.K. business into new markets, leading our people and ensuring our customers are at the heart of everything we do. He has delivered significant growth for our company and leaves an impressive legacy of achievements. Together with all of my colleagues, we wish him well for the future.”

Stephen van Rooyen added, “I have taken the decision that now is the right time for me to leave Sky. The business today has everything it needs to compete to win. We have strong leadership, led by Dana, a world-class team and a fantastic plan. I would like to thank every one of my colleagues for the support I’ve received and the commitment they make to Sky. It has been a real privilege, and I will always be Sky’s biggest supporter.”

Van Rooyen began his career at Sky as director of product management and product marketing in 2006, progressing to oversee all sales and marketing operations as chief marketing, sales and digital officer. In 2020, Stephen was appointed CEO for the U.K. and Ireland before his remit was expanded to include responsibility for Sky Italy, Germany, Austria and Switzerland as executive VP and CEO for the U.K. and Europe.

Strong was appointed group CEO of Sky in January 2021. Prior to Sky, Strong was president of consumer services for Comcast Cable.