Freesat hires head of product

Free-to-air satellite TV provider Freesat has hired David Thomas as head of product.

Thomas joins Freesat from fintech start-up Novastone Media, where he was also head of product, overseeing the strategic vision and development of a web, iOS and Android app; as well as integrations with external public IM channels such as WhatsApp, WeChat and developing new features in machine learning, AI, chat bots and data leakage protection.

Prior to Novastone, Thomas worked as a consultant at mobile web development specialist Atlas Mobile, as well as working as a product lead at Sky.

He began his career in the operations department of international broadcaster, Cellcast PLC, where he rose up the ranks from technician to VP of services.

Established in 2007 by the BBC and ITV, Freesat is the UK’s subscription-free satellite TV platform.

Freesat customers have access to a wide range of channels, as well as on-demand and catch-up services, such as BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, YouTube and Netflix.

Alistair Thom, MD at Freesat, said: “David’s appointment is key in this crucial year for Freesat. His diverse experience is invaluable as we look to connect with both new and existing customers in a number of innovative and exciting ways.”

Thomas added: “As a longstanding Freesat customer, I’m excited to be joining the business at such an important time in the company’s journey. There is huge potential for growth in the product offering, as well as many ways in which we can further enhance user experience around existing features. I’ve been extremely impressed by the team.”