UK Trade Body UKIE Hires Former Channel 4 Editor As CEO

British trade group UKIE today revealed the appointment of former Channel 4 commissioning editor Dr Jo Twist as its new CEO. UKIE represents the video games industry in the UK, as well as the wider interactive entertainment industry. Along with her prior position at Channel 4, Dr Twist also previously held a role as multiplatform commissioner for BBC Entertainment and Switch, as well as multiplatform channel editor for BBC Three. A statement from UKIE noted that Twist's strong background in education will allow the company to benefit in a variety of areas, from media to political issues. She will take up the role from January 9, 2012. Andy Payne, chairman of UKIE, said of the move, "We are really excited that Jo has agreed to lead UKIE at this really exciting time in our development." "We took our time to find the right CEO and we believe we have her. Jo's passion for games and her background in media and commissioning content will allow us to further help UK games and interactive entertainment makers and all those involved in this industry get further political and economic traction in a connected, digital worldwide market which is teeming with exciting opportunities." Twist added, "UKIE has already achieved so much in bringing the potential of our games industry to the national debate, and I am hugely excited to represent its members and help shape its vision for 2012 and on."