Sam Tewungwa Named CEO of UKTV

UKTV has appointed Sam Tewungwa, currently managing director, as its next CEO.

Tewungwa will take responsibility for the overall strategic direction and performance of the business. He will lead UKTV’s growth across its portfolio of channels and U.

Tewungwa joined BBC Studios in 2013 as commercial director for TV sales before moving into a broader commercial role. He played a pivotal role in the acquisition of UKTV by BBC Studios following the de-merger of the Discovery joint venture. In 2019, he joined the UKTV board as chief commercial officer, and in 2013, he was appointed managing director.

During his time at UKTV, Tewungwa has played a role in securing and strengthening key partnership and distribution agreements, including major carriage deals for U with Channel 4, Sky and Virgin.

Tewungwa’s appointment follows the expansion of current UKTV CEO Marcus Arthur’s remit. Arthur now leads a global portfolio, with responsibility for all BBC Studios global channels and streaming services outside of the U.S. Tewungwa will report to Arthur. He will take up the role as CEO on April 1.

“I’m honored to be taking on the role of UKTV’s next CEO,” Tewungwa said. “While there are clear challenges across the market, I am optimistic about the future of our industry and the role UKTV can play within it. We have an exceptional team, much-loved brands and a culture that is the envy of many across the sector. As part of the BBC Group, we benefit from real scale, ambition and opportunity. I’m confident UKTV will continue to flourish and grow, and I’m excited about what we will achieve together.”

“Sam has a deep understanding of UKTV’s business,” Arthur added. “His commercial instinct, strategic clarity and ability to bring teams together consistently drive results. He anticipates both challenges and opportunities and has a clear view of where we are strong, where we are evolving and where we need to push harder. This is absolutely the right leadership decision for the next phase of UKTV’s growth.”