* SeaChange appoints McGrath to CMO
By Mike Robuck
SeaChange International announced today that Simon McGrath is the company’s new CMO. McGrath is currently the director of strategy and development at On-Demand Group, which is a subsidiary of SeaChange.
“Simon (McGrath) is the perfect person to help drive SeaChange’s strategic marketing initiatives as the digital television industry’s growth begins to rely heavily on value-added software applications and services, specifically the creation of successful advertising business models for VOD,” said SeaChange Chairman and CEO Bill Styslinger. “Simon brings a unique understanding of interactive media development and the acquisition, monetization and management of content to SeaChange.”
* SCTE Foundation re-elects board members, adds fourth
By Traci Patterson
At its annual meeting conducted earlier this month, the SCTE Foundation board of directors elected its four officers to one-year terms, three of which were re-elected.
Keith Hayes of Charter Communications will continue to serve as SCTE Foundation president, John Clark of the SCTE will remain in his role as VP and Mike Phebus of Jones/NCTI will continue as secretary. New board member Greg Allshouse of Comcast will serve as treasurer.
* Dish Network adds ESPN, Disney iTV apps
By Traci Patterson
EchoStar’s Dish Network has launched two interactive television (iTV) applications for ESPN and the Disney Channel, allowing advertisers to reach a more targeted audience with interactive ad campaigns. Interactive content includes scores, headlines, TV listings and show information.
The applications, ESPN Interactive Zone and Disney Channel Interactive TV, will be available to the more than 12 million Dish Network subscribers who receive iTV services. Dish Network now has 40 iTV offerings.
* CSG CEO Ed Nafus to retire; EVP Peter Kalan named successor
By Brian Santo
CSG Systems’ President and CEO Edward C. Nafus plans to retire at the end of the year, following nearly 10 years with the company. The new CEO will be Peter Kalan, currently the company’s EVP of corporate and business development.