BBC Worldwide Names Managing Director for Global Brands

LONDON, March
11: BBC Worldwide has promoted Marcus Arthur to its board as the managing
director of global brands, effective March 31.

Arthur is
currently the managing director of BBC magazines (London) and digital delivery.
In his new role, he will report to John Smith, BBC Worldwide’s chief executive.
Arthur will continue to lead on the strategy, implementation and development of
all BBC Worldwide’s passion sites, including radiotimes.com,
bbcgoodfood.com and topgear.com, as well as assuming management responsibility
for both the Top Gear
brand and Lonely Planet.

Etienne de
Villiers, the non-executive chairman of BBC Worldwide, commented: “As BBC
Worldwide continues to build its position as a major global media company, it
is vital to establish and nurture our key brands across all platforms. Marcus’s
appointment to the board gives two of BBC Worldwide’s success stories a
forceful and dynamic champion, paving the way for continued growth and development.”

John Smith, the
chief executive at BBC Worldwide, added: “Marcus’s strategic insight, ability
to cut through complex situations and proven team leadership skills will be
invaluable as we build our top brands globally. He has already done a tremendous
job leading the rollout of our passion sites and will, I know, be a huge asset
to our board.”

—By
Kristin Brzoznowski