Telescope Signs Up Former BBC Digital Exec to Lead U.K. Expansion

LOS ANGELES: Telescope, which provides audience participation, consumer engagement and mobile technology for live TV, is expanding its business into the U.K., tapping Andrew Jackson as VP of business development.

Jackson most recently worked at the BBC as an independent consultant in the Future Media division. He also worked at MIG (now Velti) as the head of client services, where he led the launch of mobile SMS services for ITV, Channel 5 and the BBC. Jackson also served as the head of telephony at Endemol UK, overseeing the interactive services for shows such as Deal or No Deal, Goldenballs and Big Brother.

“Having experienced the immense impact of social interactivity around TV and growing importance to the broadcast ecosystem here in the U.S., we feel we are uniquely positioned to bring our capability and expertise to the U.K. market,” said Jason George, CEO of Telescope. “As advertiser interest and multi-screen activity grows, there will be an explosion of these type of engagements in the U.K. and we’re delighted to have Andrew on board to help broadcasters, production companies and brands maximize value from this exciting opportunity.”