PA appoints Robert Freeman as Head of Multimedia

- News agency continues to lead industry in content development and production

21 March 2006, The Press Association has appointed Robert Freeman as Head of Multimedia. Since joining the national news agency in August 2005 as Deputy Head of Multimedia, Robert has played a key part in developing technology behind the company’s multimedia products.

In his new role, Robert will be responsible for the commercial strategy and product development of all multimedia services. He will also provide technology leadership on new media platforms and systems and strengthen The Press Association’s work with skilled technology partners on the efficient delivery of services to customers.

The Press Association’s multimedia team produce a range of products, including news bulletins, podcasts and bespoke content which combines video with text, data, pictures and graphics, across all digital video platforms from mobile phone video to TV. Customers include MSN (www.msn.co.uk), Sun Online (www.thesun.co.uk), Tiscali (www.tiscali.co.uk) and Northcliffe Electronic Publishing.

Robert joined The Press Association from the BBC where he was a technology manager for Nations & Regions, developing broadband and mobile technology as news gathering tools.

Prior to Nations & Regions, Robert was part of the BBC News Online launch team and pioneered the streaming of audio and video on the internet. He also has a strong background in journalism, working as a sub-editor for Radio New Zealand News and regional reporter for Television New Zealand.

Robert Freeman said: “I am heading up this team at a critical time when the publishing industry is looking to us to provide leadership in how to successfully migrate their audiences online. We can show them how to take maximum advantage of the medium and grow their revenues.

“Equally for new media content providers, looking towards Web 2.0, they can use our expertise to incorporate video and audio in their content and take advantage of the introduction of High Definition video to build profitable communities.

“Digital content needs to strive towards television production values, whilst still holding more modest web budgets. I’ll be keeping PA Multimedia at the leading-edge of new content development and new production techniques.”

Tony Watson, Editorial Director said: “Since his arrival, Robert’s contribution to the development of PA’s multimedia services has been invaluable. His expertise in new technologies combined with a strong journalism background will ensure we are providing quality multimedia products for our customers and their end-users.”

Contact Information

Elizabeth Castle

External Communications Manager

The Press Association

Contact via E-mail