In a media career spanning 30 years, Nigel Parsons’ extensive experience includes roles at BBC Radios 1-4, BBC World Service Radio and WTN (Worldwide Television News), as well as successfully managing TV start-up news network teams, EBC in Switzerland and Italy’s Telecampione. He talks to Television Asia about his latest challenge, as Managing Director of Al Jazeera International “When the chance to take part in the launch of Al Jazeera English came along, it was something I leapt at. For a television journalist it must be the best job going right now – a blank sheet of paper, a chance to make a difference. It’s hard to ask for more from a professional standpoint.” Parsons says he is “honoured” to be leading the world’s first international television network based in the Middle East that’s setting the news agenda and balancing the information flow from South to North. “We have created television history,” says the media veteran, adding that being based in the Middle East has been a great experience. “I am enjoying learning about the culture and history here and adding Arabic to the other four languages I already speak,” he adds.