Highfield leaves his post as director of future media and technology to head up the on-demand video project Kangaroo
During his time with the BBC he was responsible for the successful rollout of the BBC's iPlayer.
The four-year, multi-million pound project launched at Christmas, last year, and has been responsible for bringing web TV to the masses.
In his new role Highfield, who will replace interim CEO Lesley Mackenzie, will oversee the launch of the Kangaroo service planned for later this year.
He will also be responsible for forging deals with third party content providers and organizing other distribution platforms for the service, which is subject to approval by the broadcasters' individual boards.
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