Jo Twist appointed UKIE CEO

UKIE, one of two trade bodies that covers the UK gaming industry, today announced that Dr. Jo Twist is to become its new chief executive in January. Twist comes from Channel 4, where she was commissioning editor for education and previously worked in a number of multiplatform roles at the BBC.

Twist has "a strong background in education, creative technology, and youth culture," UKIE said, and she has "a wealth of experience in all aspects of interactive entertainment, including media, technical innovation and creativity, commercial and political issues."

Andy Payne, UKIE's chairman, said, "Jo's passion for games and her background in media and commissioning content will allow us to further help UK games and interactive entertainment makers and all those involved in this industry get further political and economic traction in a connected, digital worldwide market, which is teeming with exciting opportunities."

Twist will be taking up the position on January 9, 2012.