Cheesbrough's Career in Media Technology Leadership
The evolution of modern media has been driven by leaders capable of bridging the gap between traditional broadcasting and the digital frontier. Throughout his career, Cheesbrough has served as a pivotal figure in this transition, holding executive technology roles at some of the world's most influential media organizations.
Early Career and the BBC Era
Cheesbrough began his professional journey at IBM, where he built a technical foundation before transitioning into the media sector. He joined BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of the British Broadcasting Corporation, before moving into a strategic leadership role within the BBC itself.
During his four-year tenure as the Digital Media Controller at the BBC, he became a key architect of the organization's modernization. He is widely credited with driving the corporation's digital education portfolio and managing the critical transition to digital platforms.
Strategic Leadership at The Daily Telegraph and News International
In 2007, Cheesbrough transitioned to the print media sector, joining The Daily Telegraph as the Chief Information Officer (CIO)—the executive responsible for the management and implementation of information and computer technologies. Over the course of three years, he focused on transforming the newspaper's digital portfolio to better compete in an evolving market.
Following his success at The Daily Telegraph, he joined News International in 2010, serving as the CIO for the UK subsidiary of News Corporation.
Executive Roles at 21st Century Fox and Fox Corporation
On October 31, 2016, it was announced that Cheesbrough would take on the role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at 21st Century Fox, effective December 1, 2016. Based in New York, he oversaw the technological direction of the global entity.
By 2023, as the CTO of Fox Corporation, he held responsibility for all technology across the company. His tenure included a significant strategic focus on the 2013 separation of News Corporation into two distinct business entities. While he initially worked directly for Murdoch, he later worked under the leadership of Robert Thomson.
Key Facts
- Initial Career Start: Began at IBM.
- BBC Contribution: Led the digital education portfolio and the shift to digital as Digital Media Controller.
- CIO Experience: Served as Chief Information Officer at both The Daily Telegraph and News International.
- CTO Tenure: Held the Chief Technology Officer position at 21st Century Fox and Fox Corporation.
- Major Project: Managed technology aspects of the 2013 News Corporation business separation.
Career Summary Table
| Organization | Role | Key Focus/Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| IBM | Initial Role | Career commencement |
| BBC Worldwide / BBC | Digital Media Controller | Digital education and digital transition |
| The Daily Telegraph | Chief Information Officer | Digital portfolio transformation |
| News International | Chief Information Officer | UK subsidiary technology leadership |
| 21st Century Fox | Chief Technology Officer | Global technology leadership (New York) |
| Fox Corporation | Chief Technology Officer | Company-wide technology and business separation |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Cheesbrough join 21st Century Fox?
The announcement was made on October 31, 2016, and he officially joined the company as Chief Technology Officer on December 1, 2016.
What was his primary contribution at the BBC?
He is widely recognized for driving the BBC's digital education portfolio and leading the organization's transition to digital media.
Which companies did he serve as Chief Information Officer (CIO)?
He served as the CIO for both The Daily Telegraph and News International.
What role did he play in the 2013 News Corporation split?
As a technology leader, he focused on the separation of News Corporation into two separate businesses.
Who were the primary executives he worked under at Fox?
He initially worked directly for Murdoch and subsequently worked for Robert Thomson.