Microsoft has appointed Donna Hindson as trade marketing director for the UK’s Advertising & Online (A&O) division, replacing Nickie Smith who moved to the company’s international division last year.

Hindson, who reports to Andy Hart, general manager of Microsoft Advertising & Online UK, joins Microsoft from the BBC, where she was head of marketing operations and partnerships. The move marks a return to Microsoft for Hindson who has spent 13 years working for the company, taking up roles including director of partner marketing for MSN EMEA and regional marketing manager across Asia.

Hindson will be responsible for all trade marketing activities within the Microsoft A&O division in the UK, including boosting awareness of Microsoft Advertising platforms such as MSN, Windows Live and Xbox Live.

Microsoft described the appointment of Hindson as the “final addition” to Hart’s executive team. Last year saw the departure of key high-profile names at the company, including Ashley Highfield and Chris Maples. Just last month the online giant brought in Nik Dewar as UK head of mobile ad sales (nma.co.uk 16 December 2011) following the departures of Lee Blyth and Paul Lyonette.

Hindson said, “My goal will be to develop closer relationships with our customers and clients, helping to bring their campaigns to life through digital story telling.”