Sky searching for new financial boss

BSkyB today said it had begun the search for a new chief financial officer after Martin Stewart announced plans to leave the pay-TV firm.

Mr Stewart, who has been with BSkyB since 1996, was among a number of names linked to the vacant chief executive’s post last year. The job eventually went to James Murdoch, the son of media tycoon and BSkyB chairman Rupert.

The 40-year-old, who will continue in his post until August 4, said he was leaving the company to “pursue other opportunities”. He joined BSkyB as financial controller in 1996 and stepped up to CFO in May 1998.

Last year, Mr Stewart earned more than £900,000 (€1.3m), including £500,000 (€730,400) from the company’s bonus scheme.

James Murdoch said Mr Stewart would be leaving the company in a “superlative position”.

He added: “Martin has played an enormous role in the success of Sky and has been instrumental in the company’s transition from analogue to digital.”