Marc Watson to Step Down as BT TV CEO

Watson, who has led BT’s television business since 2009, oversaw its surprise acquisition of the rights to a slew of Barclays Premier League football matches. He also signed deals for the rights to competitions including UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europe League and Aviva Premiership Rugby as BT Sport ramped up its rivalry with Sky.

Watson, who replaced Dan Marks in the role, is leaving to “explore new opportunities outside the company”.

BT TV, which has just under 1m subscribers, is now hunting for his replacement and is considering external and internal candidates.

The incoming chief executive will report to John Petter, chief executive of BT Consumer.

“I would like to thank Marc for helping us bring BT TV to a large audience and for helping us to launch BT Sport with the very best live sporting action including top tier football, rugby, tennis and MotoGP rights. He leaves with our best wishes for the future,” said Petter.

“I am proud of what we have achieved in BT TV. We have built a top quality TV service from scratch and BT Sport is thriving thanks to the great live sport we’ve secured,” added Watson. “I am sure the business will go from strength to strength and I wish everyone at BT well.”