James Murdoch Earns New Appointment

Son of media mogul Rupert Murdoch, James Murdoch has today been unveiled as the new boss for News Corp. operations throughout Europe and Asia, in a move that is set to propel his significance in the global media sectors.

The 34-year-old son of News Corp pioneer Rupert Murdoch, behind Sky TV, MySpace and numerous other substantial global media holdings, was announced as he left his position as chief executive of the BSkyB division with a view to taking up the new role.

James Murdoch’s appointment goes against convention, seeing him transcend from the position of chief executive to chairman essentially within the same organisation. His father is set to step down prior to his appointment.

Speaking today on the appointment, Rupert Murdoch said that his son had already earned his stripes in the business world, and has a proven track record in delivering commercial excellence and improving performance. It is thought that his position will see the business more effectively divided on a geographic basis, giving James free reign over his regional areas.

“James is a talented and proven executive with a rare blend of international perspective and deep, hands-on experience in improving operational results,” commented Murdoch on the appointment of his son.

Murdoch will be replaced at Sky by former finance director Jeremy Darroch in an internal appointment, whilst Murdoch will step in to his father’s old job at the head of the organisation.

Whilst the industry tends to object to former chief executives as internal chairman candidates, it remains to be seen whether James’ appointment today will do enough to suppress any section of criticism, and whether he can live up to his past commercial experience in the role.

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