HBO hires new technology boss

Otto Berkes, one of the original creators of Microsoft’s games console Xbox is becoming head of technology at premium broadcaster HBO. This follows the retirement of Robert Zitter.

Zitter, who was chief technology officer, will step down at the end of March 2013 and will work on certain special projects at the company until the end of the year.

Berkes will become executive vice president, technology and chief technology officer. He will be responsible for overseeing consumer technology and distribution at HBO. He joined the Time Warner-owned company in 2011 as senior vice president, digital products and was one of the men responsible for the rollout of HBO’s digital streaming service HBO Go.

“There are very few names that come to mind who have had as significant an impact on our industry as Bob Zitter,” said Eric Kessler, president and chief operating officer, HBO. “His accomplishments and innovation have helped transform not just the business at HBO but the entire landscape.”

“Over the last year, Otto’s experience and functional expertise have helped elevate HBO’s technological agility, enabling us to meet the growing needs of our subscribers in an era of constantly emerging new media platforms,” added Kessler. “Under his leadership, we believe that HBO will remain at the forefront of the industry.”