Schukai, Global Head of Mobile Technology at Thomson Reuters, will lead Tech City’s outreach programme to New York’s technology, digital and investment communities

London and New York, 14 July 2011: UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) today announced the appointment of Bob Schukai, global head of mobile technology at Thomson Reuters, as London’s Tech City ambassador to New York. In his role as ambassador, Bob will promoteTechCity, and the business and investment opportunities in the area, to the technology and investment communities inNew York and the broader eastern US region.

Bob, who has dual US and British citizenship, is the first international ambassador for TechCity.

TechCity, announced last year by Prime Minister David Cameron, is transforming East London into a centre for high-tech growth and innovation. Located in the Old Street and Shoreditch area, the area is home to more than 300 digital, creative and high-tech companies today and is Europe’s fastest growing technology hub.

UK Trade & Investment’s Eric Van Der Kleij, CEO of Tech City Investment Organisation (TCIO), said:

“We’re thrilled that Bob has agreed to serve asTechCity’s ambassador in the US. Not only does he bring deep experience in the mobile and media industries, but he is passionate about London, and passionate about creativity.

“Having worked in bothLondonand theUS, Bob really understands what makes TechCity and London’s digital and technology ecosystem unique, and what business and investment opportunities there are here for US companies.”

For Thomson Reuters, the world’s leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, the connection between innovation and technology is a strong one. As global head of mobile technology, Bob is responsible for the development and execution of mobile growth strategy across the organisation’s business. With a significant Thomson Reuters presence in theUKand Bob’s ongoing work with the UKTI, this appointment represents a natural extension for Thomson Reuters to engage with exciting new technology companies that can provide a meaningful impact to businesses.

Talking about his appointment, Bob Schukai said:

“More than any other city in the world,Londonhas the opportunity to take a leadership position in the digital creative industries. It has a heritage in design, creativity, fashion, film, and innovation that no other city can match.

“Tech City provides a platform to support the successful renaissance that is already underway in the Shoreditch area, and I’m eager to champion efforts that infuse technology, investment and talent to help up and coming start-ups and revitalise East London.”

In his role, Bob Schukai will work closely with Eric Van Der Kleij and TCIO advisory member, Kevin Eyres, who is leading mentorship programmes in the area. Bob will be participating in several education and mentorship programmes with Tech City in the coming months.

Discussing his mentoring role Bob Schukai said:

“I have a personal interest in talent development, and am excited at the prospect for community involvement, providing role models and opportunities to inspire young adults about technology and their future.”

Media contacts

For more information contact:

Clive Bull, UK Trade & Investment Press Office, +44 (0)20 7215 8483, or [email protected]

TechCityPress Office on +44 (0)207 413 3751

David Girardin, Thomson Reuters, +1 646 223 4870, or [email protected]

Notes to editors

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is the Government Department that helps UK-based companies succeed in the global economy. We also help overseas companies bring their high quality investment to the UK’s economy – acknowledged as Europe’s best place from which to succeed in global business. UKTI offers expertise and contacts through its extensive network of specialists in the UK, and in British embassies and other diplomatic offices around the world. We provide companies with the tools they require to be competitive on the world stage. For more information on UKTI, visit www.ukti.gov.uk or telephone +44 (0)20 7215 8000. For latest press releases, visit the online newsroom at www.ukti.gov.uk/media.

You can also keep in touch with developments at UKTI through www.blog.ukti.gov.uk, www.twitter.com/uktiand www.flickr.com/photos/tags/ukti.

 

For more information about TechCitygo to: www.techcityeast.com