Joanna Shields quits as Facebook Euro chief to join London's Tech City

New TCIO executive begins in January 2013

Facebook EMEA vice-president and managing director Joanna Shields is leaving the social media giant to head up the Tech City Investment Organisation (TCIO).

Shields will join TCIO in January as chief executive and will also perform the role of Business Ambassador for the Digital Industries.

"I'm delighted that Joanna is joining the Tech City Investment Organisation. The success of Tech City shows just what can happen when we back some of our most innovative and aspiring companies to grow, helping the UK compete and thrive in the global race," said Prime Minister David Cameron.

"Joanna's experience will be hugely valuable in supporting Tech City as it goes from strength to strength, and as a Business Ambassador promoting the UK around the world," he added.

Shields has served in her position at Facebook since 2010, having previously held roles at AOL, Google and social network Bebo.

"Working in the UK for the past decade has proven to me that this country has the potential to become a major force in digital innovation," said Shields.

"Throughout my career I have had the privilege of working with great entrepreneurs and innovators to create thriving new businesses and industries. The seeds have been sown in East London for a dynamic and successful cluster: we have the infrastructure, the technology and the talent, now we need to accelerate the growth," she continued.

"I am looking forward to leading the Tech City Investment Organisation in the next phase of its development. With the right boost now, there is no reason why we can't make London the number one location for tech in the world," Shields concluded.

TCIO was set up last year to help attract inward investment and support companies in the cluster who want to expand into international markets. Major organisations in the East London area include Google, Intel and Cisco.