Hong Kong – BBC Worldwide announced the appointment of Mark Chan to the newly-created role of regional sales and business development director for digital media and formats in Asia. Taking up the new role in early February 2009, Chan will report to Joyce Yeung, senior vice president and general manager, BBC Worldwide sales and distribution. Chan will deliver and grow BBC Worldwide Asia’s digital media and format licensing businesses across all platforms including terrestrial, cable, satellite, fixed line, internet and mobile, and will be dedicated to drive and develop sales in these areas. Responsible for the development and implementation of digital media and format license strategy in Asia (including South Korea, India and Japan), he will be working closely with the Asia distribution team to explore digital media opportunities and online propositions, as well as format and co-production opportunities with broadcasters. “In Asia we have seen a fast growing number of digital platforms, as well as traditional media broadcasters expanding into the digital space. There is also a growing demand for international formats and co-production for cross-platform application,” said Yeung. “It’s the perfect time to introduce a strong talent like Chan in order to develop strategies to drive further growth in these two key areas for us.” Chan joins BBC Worldwide from Disney ABC International Television, where he was director of sales for greater China, responsible for programme syndication across both traditional and digital platforms and developing strategic distribution opportunities in Mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Previous to this he held various positions within the company, including Beijing based director of sales for China and sales manager for Hong Kong, Taiwan, Philippines, Indonesia and emerging markets.