HomeChoice picks head of sales and marketing

HomeChoice, the broadband television provider, has appointed former Abbey and BT marketer Michael Johnson as sales and marketing director.

Johnson joins parent company Video Networks Limited as the replacement for marketing director Vicky Mitchell, but his remit also includes sales. He will head VNL’s sales operations ahead of a national roll-out of its services. It is only available in London and Stevenage.

Johnson joins VNL from Abbey, where he was cash director. His departure comes amid speculation that the bank is looking to trim its UK operation, including the marketing department.

Before joining Abbey in 2003, he was chief executive of BT’s home communications and high street business. He was involved IN the development and launch of BT businesses, including Home Computing and Click&buy. He also led the launch of BT Mobile.

Johnson relocated to the UK from Australia, where he was marketing director for mobile operator Orange, in 2000.

His appointment comes amid reports that HomeChoice, which offer bundles of digital TV, video-on-demand and broadband internet, is up for sale for an estimated &£200m.

Potential buyers, thought to include BSkyB, are believed to have lodged initial bids last week.