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Presto launches with Shaun James at the helm

prestoFoxtel will launch its online movie service Presto tomorrow with its head of digital and music channels Shaun James at the helm.

James, who is currently the general manager of music channels and head of digital for Foxtel Networks Australia, takes on the job of director of Presto and video on demand (VOD) from tomorrow. He replaces Jacqui Feeney who was made managing director of Fox International Channels Asia earlier this month.

Foxtel CEO Richard Freudenstein said the new product will rival the iTunes movie store with an “intuitive interface” listing a variety of movies alongside critics reviews from film review database Rotten Tomatoes.

However, the rollout has faced delays as Foxtel looked to get the platform right, in a bid to grab a slice of the lucrative and emerging streaming market. 

James

James

It will make all of the films available on Foxtel’s eight movie channels, including Disney movies set to launch on April 10, available to stream live or on-demand without advertising breaks.

Viewers will be able to purchase a monthly pass to access the films for $19.99 a month and take advantage of a special introductory offer of $4.99 a month. Pay per view films offered under Presto Rental will be available to watch for an additional cost.

Foxtel CEO Richard Freudenstein said: “I’m delighted that Shaun James, who is such as strong member of the Foxtel team, has agreed to take on this role. Under his leadership, Presto is certain to go from strength to strength.”

James joined Foxtel in 2012 as general manager of music channels having previously worked with XYZ as general manager of music. He took on the additional role of head of digital in February last year.

Further appointments following the restructure that saw two senior executives made redundant have yet to be confirmed by the company.

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