Former BBC executive Richard Titus has been named as the new head of Northcliffe Media’s sister digital operation Associated Northcliffe Digital.

AND is responsible for so-called “pure play” websites such as recruitment platform Jobsite, memorials site Lasting Tribute, and property portals such as Primelocation and FindaProperty.

It has been without a leader since the departure of managing director Andy Hart last July.

The appointment of Mr Titus, formerly controller of future media at the BBC, was announced today by Kevin Beatty, managing director of parent company A&N Media.

He said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Richard Titus as chief executive officer of AND.

“In his role at the BBC he contributed to a number of high-profile, award winning projects, including the launch of the well regarded personalised homepage, the BBC iPlayer and the corporation’s mobile strategy and services.

“Richard’s primary focus will be the leadership, growth and strategic direction of AND. He will support its executives in developing their businesses into new and existing markets,” Mr Beatty added.

“He will also be available to share his considerable digital consumer experience across the rest of our business.”