Microsoft appoints marketer to drive mobile search division

Microsoft Online Services Group (OSG) has appointed Hugh Griffiths as director of mobile as it ramps up its push into the mobile search market. Griffiths joins from telecoms provider O2, where he was responsible for driving online search and advertising in a consultancy role.

Griffiths will be responsible for driving the overall strategy and direction of the Microsoft OSG. He will drive the next stage of development, which will include launching services such as Windows Live, MSN portal and Search on the mobile platform.

Microsoft recently announced tie-ups with Vodafone and France Telecom to offer next-generation messaging services based on the Windows Live Messenger.

Griffiths says: “It is the company’s aim to provide consumers with personal, relevant digital services to enhance their lifestyle and we believe mobile to be integral to this. We are also working with the industry to provide advertisers with innovative solutions to engage effectively with consumers.”

Prior to O2, Griffiths was managing director for iTouch UK at Independent News & Media. He is also a former head of product and marketing strategy at Cable & Wireless.