Roku adds Amazon’s former global streaming chief Jeff Blackburn to board

Jeff Blackburn

Former Amazon exec Jeff Blackburn, who until recently oversaw its streaming and content operations, is joining the Roku board.

Blackburn was previously Amazon’s SVP of global media & entertainment, with a remit that stretched across Prime Video and Amazon Studios, as well as gaming streamer Twitch, Amazon Music and podcast service Audible.

He revealed plans to step down late last year having spent more than 20 years with the global retailer.

Blackburn said: “I look forward to working with fellow board members and Roku’s leadership team to further the company’s mission of being the platform that truly connects the TV ecosystem around the world.”

Roku has endured a rocky couple of years, with its share price diving from a high of almost $465 in July 2021 to just $39 at the start of the year. Since then, it has climbed slightly to $69 per share, most recently revealing 72 million active accounts in April.

It has also bolstered its exec team, with Fox alum Charlie Collier joining to lead on original programming.