Jon Gisby has been appointed director of new media and technology at Channel 4.

The former vice president of media and communications at Yahoo Europe will lead the channel's efforts to expand its online presence. Gisby has also previously been a senior adviser to the BBC's corporate strategy team.

"Jon is the ideal candidate for this important new role," said Channel 4 chief executive Andy Duncan. "He combines an impressive management track record with leading edge online media companies with experience of strategic development for a public service broadcaster. His experience and skills will be a significant addition to Channel 4's senior management team as we focus on building an even more successful presence in digital media with a view to securing Channel 4's future."

Gisby will work closely with Kevin Lygo, Channel 4's director of TV and content, "to ensure that Channel 4 is delivering public value online".

Gisby said: "I'm excited by the challenge of helping transform Channel 4's proposition. Channel 4 has a powerful and trusted brand, an unrivalled relationship with young audiences and a creative culture that places a premium on innovation - there's no reason why it can't have the same impact and success in new media that it has enjoyed in TV for the last 25 years."