BBC Future Media hires Microsoft’s Huggers

BBC Future Media and Technology has named Erik Huggers as group controller of Future Media and Technology. Huggers is one of three new and final appointments to the newly created division made by Ashley Highfield, director of BBC Future Media and Technology.

Huggers will oversee the department’s strategy between the three Future Media and Technology controllers. He spent nine years with Microsoft including the launch of MSN portals in the Benelux and the European development of Windows Media Technologies. Huggers also worked with Endemol Entertainment as director of business development in its interactive division.

Paul Dale becomes the Future Media controller for BBC Vision, working between Future Media and Technology and the BBC’s production and commissioning division. Dale was previously technology director for Sky’s Network Media group.

Virgin Radio’s digital media director James Cridland becomes BBC Head of Future Media and Technology, Audio & Music.