Dr Jo Twist appointed as new CEO of UKIE

Channel 4's commissioning editor for education Dr Jo Twist has been appointed as the new CEO for UK industry trade body UKIE.

Twist will commence work in her new post on January 9, 2012. Twist has a long history in television work, but was influential in commisioning a great deal of educational and entertainment based games for Channel 4 during her tenure, including controversial sexual health title Privates, as well as project such as Paulina Bozek's Closet Swap initiative.

"We are really excited that Jo has agreed to lead UKIE at this really exciting time in our development," said UKIE Chairman Andy Payne.

"We took our time to find the right CEO and we believe we have her. 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 vacating her position at Channel 4 to take on her responsibilities at UKIE full time.

"It's an honour and a privilege to join the brilliant UKIE team at a time when the British interactive entertainment industry is forging its path as a global leader," said Dr Twist.

"UKIE has already achieved so much in bringing the potential of our games industry to the national debate, and I am hugely excited to represent its members and help shape its vision for 2012 and on. I will of course be sad to be leaving the Channel 4 Education team who continue to produce award winning and innovative interactive content for young people."