Ball has held senior executive positions in broadcasting and telecommunication businesses in the UK, US and continental Europe. Between 1999 and 2003 he was Chief Executive of BSkyB plc, where he drove the rapid take up of Sky’s digital TV offering.
During the past four years he has led the successful turnaround of Kabel Deutschland which operates cable TV networks in Germany. He has helped build the company into Germany’s fastest growing high-speed broadband provider.
Welcoming the appointment BT’s Chairman Sir Michael Rake, said: “Tony has an outstanding track record of innovation and delivery in the communications industry. As BT focuses on the rich opportunities that are presented by combining entertainment with broadband, his drive, knowledge and experience will prove a tremendous asset to the Board.”
Tony Ball, added: “The convergence of the computer and the television, entertainment and communications has only just begun and it is clear BT will have an important part to play in shaping the future. I am looking forward to being part of that journey.”