MBC Group, a leading private free-to-air satellite broadcasting firm in the region, has announced the appointment of Ali Jaber as its TV director.

Jaber takes over from Tim Riordan, who is to retire in October. However, Riordan will remain a special advisor to MBC chairman and board, said a company statement.

Having helped drive MBC channel launches over the years and successfully negotiated output deals with all the major studios, Riordan has been instrumental in shaping the unique TV viewing experience that millions in the Mena region have enjoyed, it added.

On Jaber's appointment, the company said he will be joining the team of group directors that manage the MBC’s activities across many different media and platforms.

On the key appointment, Ali Al-Hedeithy, MBC’s Group director general said, 'Riordan has been a pillar of the MBC for many years. He made his mark particularly in the launch of its western content channels.'

'However, we have also benefitted from his wide ranging experience across all areas of the Group,' he noted.

'Tim’s leadership, his ability to make things happen from studio deals to channel launches, and his readiness to innovate - have been a big asset for MBC. We’re delighted that Tim has agreed to stay in an advisory capacity to MBC chairman and board,” he added.

Welcoming Jaber to the MBC family, Al-Hedeithy said, 'His background, his wide ranging achievements in the industry and his years of experience will bring added value to the Group and will further enrich our team of group directors.”-TradeArabia News Service