BBC hires Microsoft manager to boost iPlayer development

Yesterday the BBC announced a major upgrade to the iPlayer and today it has announced the creation of a new role to boost its online services.

Daniel Danker joins the BBC from Microsoft, as general manager for programmes and on-demand (POD).

In his new role Danker will develop products to deliver online services, including TV and radio, and will manage iPlayer and search.

The new role is part of a restructuring of the BBC’s future media and technology department, following online controller Anthony Rose’s decision to move to Project Canvas.

The latest version of the iPlayer allows users to personalise their iPlayer service so they can access their favourite programmes with less clicking.

It also allows shows to be shared on social networking sites.

Other improvements still in the pipeline include integration with Windows Messenger.