[Sydney, AUSTRALIA] LookSmart has appointed Jason Kellerman as chief executive officer of its Australian operations. Kellerman will take over from current CEO Tim Pethick, who will become CEO of BT LookSmart, the joint venture between British Telecommunications and LookSmart.

Kellerman joined LookSmart's San Francisco unit as director of the eCommerce Group, in March 1999 and headed its revenue management team.

"Jason's appointment as CEO marks an important milestone for our Australian operations. His proven track record in developing new revenue streams, building-on successful teams and ultimately, leveraging LookSmart's position as the leading search infrastructure provider, will be a tremendous asset to LookSmart Australia," said Evan Thornley, chairman and CEO of LookSmart.

"LookSmart Australia has undergone rapid growth in the past twelve months resulting in more than 45 ISP partnerships and strategic alliances," said Kellerman, adding, "On a personal level, moving back is akin to a homecoming for me and my Australian wife."

Prior to joining LookSmart, Kellerman was a principal at Mercer Management Consulting.