George Jeffrey, who has run National Geographic Channel in Europe since 2002, is stepping down from the role in a bid to stand for parliament.
The 46-year-old lawyer is hoping to be selected as the Conservative party candidate for Hayes in Middlesex ahead of the General Election. On his website, Jeffrey describes his reason for the career change as being led by the “fierce urgency of now”.
Labour rebel John McDonnell currently holds the seat with a majority of 10,847 at the 2005 election. Jeffrey will require a 14% swing if he is to unseat his opponent. If unsuccessful in his bid, he intends to work in Conservative Central Office.
Jeffrey will not be directly replaced by Nat Geo, which will instead use regionally appointed country managers.
