Host Broadcast Services (HBS), the television production company owned by international sports marketing agency Infront, has established a UK-based subsidiary to manage its business in the market.

The new office, which will be based in London, will open in January, and be led by experienced media executive Jamie Aitchison as managing director.

Aitchison has been in the industry for more than 30 years and worked with broadcasters, production companies, governing bodies, and brands, including ITV Sport, Sunset + Vine, IMG, World Rugby, and NFL.

He was previously head of sport for commercial broadcaster Channel 4 where he oversaw coverage of the London 2012 Paralympic Games. He has also previously worked for HBS on four previous FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Dan Miodownik, HBS chief executive, said: “Jamie’s in–depth knowledge of the production market, and the key figures within it, as well as his long prior working relationship with HBS, made him an obvious candidate to lead our operation in the UK.”

“He has a hugely impressive track record on UK-based events, as well as major international productions on the grandest scale, and we look forward to seeing him put that expertise to use on our upcoming projects.”

Aitchison added: “Having worked with HBS for nearly 20 years in a variety of roles, I am delighted to be joining the company full-time for this next exciting phase of growth in the UK. I can’t wait to get started with our clients, partners, and suppliers.” 

In January this year, HBS launched a US-based subsidiary to expand its business into North America. The new entity - known as HBS LLC - is based in Miami, Florida.

The division manages the current projects HBS is working on in the US, including the extended contract with Concacaf, soccer’s governing body across North and Central America and the Caribbean.

HBS provides host broadcast services for several major sporting events including FIFA competitions, the Rugby World Cup, and tennis’ French Open grand slam.