MUMBAI: BBC Worldwide has appointed Zina Neophytou as travel distribution director, BBC Global Channels ? the first position of its kind within BBC Worldwide?s channels business.

As travel distribution director, Zina?s new role is to expand the channels business across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) focussing on both reach as well as revenues, in the travel sector. Responsible for the development and implementation of all travel distribution and sales strategies, Zina will be the main point of contact for all EMEA territories within the hotel sector and globally for airlines and cruise ships. Championing the needs of the travel sector within the company, Zina will also contribute to the development of a travel section of the BBC World web site.

BBC Worldwide senior VP global channels EMEA Dean Possenniskie says, ?As we carry out our ambitious strategy to grow our new portfolio of BBC-branded channels, we?re thrilled to have Zina join the Global Channels team and welcome the immense industry experience she brings to this role.?

Zina says, "I am delighted to be a part of BBC Worldwide?s growing channels business in this unique distribution position. In recent years, BBC World has established itself as a must-have channel within the travel sector, and I?m confident that the addition of five new BBC-branded channels will complement this demand within the travel industry."

Zina brings with her more than ten years of experience in the travel distribution industry.

MUMBAI:NDTV has posted a 27.5 per cent rise in revenues to Rs 676 million for the last quarter ended 31 March 2007, up from Rs 530.3 million a year ago.

EBIDTA (earnings before interest, depreciation, tax and amortization) stood at Rs 110 million as against Rs 65.1 million during the same period, representing a 69 per cent year-on-year growth.

Operating profits have more than doubled at Rs 54.7 million, up from Rs 25 million.

The consolidated results are not comparable to last year as they include costs incurred in setting up new businesses in NDTV Network PLC, the company said in a statement.

The NDTV board has also recommended a dividend of 20 per cent of the face value of shares (Rs 4), or Re 0.80 per share.

The company has taken up several new initiatives. NDTV Imagine has been incorporated to spearhead the group?s foray into mass entertainment. Starting with general entertainment, the company will expand into movies, regional youth and kids programming.

"The initial global portfolio of television channel includes the highly successful Astro Awani in Indonesia, a soon to be launched channel in Malaysia and another in the Middle East. Other Asian and African countries will follow," the release added.