Ex-Travel Channel Chief Takes BBC Post

LONDON: Patrick Younge, who most recently headed up Travel Channel in the U.S., is joining BBC Vision Productions as chief creative officer.

Younge replaces Peter Salmon, who is now director of BBC North, at BBC Vision Productions, which churns out hits such as Strictly Come Dancing, Doctor Who, Top Gear, Antiques Roadshow, EastEnders, Dragons’ Den, Watchdog, Nature’s Great Events and The One Show.

"I’m delighted to welcome Patrick back to the BBC, to take on what is one of the most significant roles in U.K. broadcasting," said Jana Bennett, the director of BBC Vision. "Patrick brings with him a wealth of experience from both here in the U.K. and the States. He is a truly modern thinker who understands how audiences consume content across different platforms. He also brings with him exceptional leadership and management skills and an ability to spot and nurture both on and off-screen talent. His international experience will be invaluable as he looks to develop BBC Vision program brands in partnership with the Commercial Agency and BBC Worldwide."

Younge took up the post of president and general manager of Travel Channel Media, now owned by Cox Communications, in 2005, Prior to this, Younge spent four years as head of programs and planning for BBC Sport, and two years as commissioning editor for multicultural programs at Channel 4.