Tom Toumazis returns to TV

Tom Toumazis, the former Disney distribution boss and Endemol CCO, is returning to the TV sector, joining TVBeat, the real-time audience measurement business.

Toumazis will chairman of the London-based start-up.

Having worked at Eurosport, Disney, ITV and Endemol, Toumazis left the TV business to take the helm at publishing firm Mecom.

Speaking about his new role Toumazis said: “TVbeat has arrived at the right time, a time when broadcasters, advertisers and pay-TV platforms are looking for greater insight into viewer consumption, engagement and behaviour. With its cutting-edge technology, TVbeat is an invaluable tool for decision-makers: from content selection to scheduling to TV planning and buying. It’s really exciting to be part of this innovative start-up.”

Toumazis will also become an angel investor in the TV tech company, alongside Episode 1 and Credo Ventures, the UK and Czech-based private equity firms that recently committed to a US$2 million investment in TVBeat.

TV Beat was set up in 2013 by Robert Farazin, who originally devised the product in response to demands from broadcasters in the Balkans to monitor audiences more accurately, reflecting changes in viewing trends across multiple devices.

The real-time ratings service is currently operating in Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia.

TVbeat’s CEO, Laurence Miall-d’Août said: “Tom is a highly experienced and visionary business leader with a diverse 30-year corporate track record that’s given him a unique 360 degree view of the industry.”