Liberty Global creates big data business unit

European cable operator Liberty Global has established a new business unit to pursue big data opportunities and new advertising models following a review conducted by the company over the last five months. 

This new unit will explore and define ways in which Liberty Global can leverage its investment in advanced networks to generate ad and data related value.

John Paul has been named as managing director of the business unit from today. Paul has held a number of emerging product roles in both broadcast and cable. He worked in Australia on the launch of Austar and its triple-play products, and helped the company explore investment opportunities in Asia, and also served as CTO of broadcaster SBS Australia, COO of Australia Network, Founder and Managing Partner of Trident Media Partners and served on the boards of SANZAR (South Africa, New Zealand and Australia Rugby) and Freeview Australia.

In his new role, Paul will be charged with developing new revenue models and value associated with advanced advertising and data. He will report to Liberty Global president and CEO Mike Fries and CTO Balan Nair.