ASTRA honours Kim Williams

The Subscription TV industry yesterday paid tribute to former Foxtel CEO Kim Williams.

Williams, who helmed the Pay TV provider for ten years, was presented with the third annual ASTRA Pioneer Award at the ASTRA Conference by ASTRA Chairman Steve Bracks.

Now CEO of News Limited, Kim was recognised for his role in driving Foxtel into the digital age, introducing a slate of new products and services across his ten year tenure as CEO. He was instrumental in the launch of Foxtel Digital in 2004, which allowed for greater interactivity for viewers and saw half a million Australian homes sign up within eight months of the launch. Kim’s commitment to new and ground-breaking programming, ongoing investment in Australian content, countless community initiatives and the development of talented and committed employees has ensured the success of Foxtel as an industry leader and innovator.

“I am delighted to receive the reward. It recognises that we have built a company and sector that is bigger, better and stronger than we found it. We’ve created thousands of jobs for great Australian talent, and awarded both our viewers and our shareholders,” said Kim Williams, former CEO of Foxtel.

“The ASTRA Pioneer Award acknowledges the outstanding achievements and contribution made by individuals in the subscription television industry. The legacy of this year’s recipient will live on through the vast array of content and services that are enjoyed by countless Australian consumers, making him a true pioneer in the industry,” said the Hon Steve Bracks, Chairman of ASTRA.

Along with the launch of Foxtel Digital, Kim was involved in the introduction of cutting-edge products and services including Foxtel IQ Foxtel iQ, Telstra Mobile Foxtel, Foxtel HD and Foxtel iQ2 and other innovations such as the ability to order Foxtel box office movies via the phone and online, Foxtel Next Generation, the Foxtel iPhone app, Foxtel on XBOX360, Foxtel on Demand and Foxtel on the Telstra T-Box.