SeaChange appoints new CEO

Jay Samit

Video technology provider SeaChange International has appointed former president of social chat service ooVoo, Jay Samit, as its new chief executive officer (CEO). 

Samit, who was appointed unanimously by the SeaChange board, succeeds SeaChange’s current CEO Raghu Rau and takes up his new role effective immediately.

Samit has more than 30 years of experience in the digital video industry. Before ooVoo he was CEO of SocialVibe, a digital advertising technology company. He has also held senior executive roles with Sony and EMI, where he helped lead the firms’ digital media efforts.

“With video usage expanding across cable, internet, telcos and mobile globally, I believe the opportunities for SeaChange to continue to power the growth of multi-screen video and advertising are substantial. I am excited to work with the team at SeaChange to continue to drive innovation, delight our customers and deliver superior operating results,” said Samit.

SeaChange chairman of the board, Thomas Olson said: “Jay understands the needs of our current customers and his experience in digital video will enhance our ability to deliver for them in the future.”

“SeaChange would like to express our appreciation to Raghu Rau for providing very effective leadership at a critical time in the company’s history. Raghu led the transformation of SeaChange to a software company, divested non-core business units and reduced operating expenses, while investing in next generation products.”

Rau leaves after three years in charge at SeaChange, during which time he oversaw the development of SeaChange’s Adrenalin multi-screen platform and the introduction of its Nucleus video gateway software product.

Rau said he will “look forward to ensuring a smooth transition for the benefit of our customers, employees and shareholders.”