BBC Worldwide Names Channels Director for Australia

SYDNEY/LONDON: BBC Worldwide has appointed Deirdre Brennan as the general manager and director of channels and branded services for Australasia.

Brennan is currently the director of TV for BBC Worldwide Australia. In her new role, she will be responsible for the growth and development of the local channel portfolio, which includes UKTV, UKTV NZ, BBC Knowledge, BBC Knowledge NZ and CBeebies. She will also manage local operations for BBC World News. Further oversight includes the channels’ non-linear services in the market and the ongoing roll out of the global BBC iPlayer. Brennan reports to Jana Bennett, the president of worldwide networks and global BBC iPlayer. Brennan will also work with Tony Iffland until a successor is named for the role of general manager for BBC Worldwide Australia.

Bennett said, “Deirdre brings great vision and dynamism to the role of General Manager of Channels and Branded Services, and an in-depth understanding of the needs of our growing network in Australia and New Zealand. Following a competitive process, I am delighted to welcome her to the senior management team.”

Brennan added, “I’m proud of the growth of our channels portfolio over the last few years, from the launch of BBC Knowledge NZ to the commissioning of some outstanding local content. This new role gives me the opportunity to focus on leading and developing our channels business in territory to great new heights.”

Iffland commented, “Deirdre has an unrivalled knowledge and understanding of the Australian subscription television business. Coupled with a real passion and flair for the content that our consumers enjoy, she will be an excellent leader for our growing portfolio of channels and a great support for the General Manager of BBC Worldwide Australia in territory.”