BBC Worldwide Channels to Step Up Commissioning

LONDON: BBC Worldwide Channels has tapped former UKTV executive Tracy Forsyth to serve in the new role of VP of commissioning, in an effort to increase the production of original content.

Forsyth, who takes on the role in January 2012, will act as BBC Worldwide’s executive producer on all commissions as well. Her remit will include commissioning and co-productions for shows for BBC Knowledge, BBC Entertainment, BBC Lifestyle, BBC HD and UK.TV. She will also lead all new program negotiations commercially. Most recently, Forsyth was the commissioning editor at UKTV, working across its factual and entertainment channels in the U.K. Prior to this she worked as a commissioning editor for the BBC’s daytime and early peak schedules.

So far this year, BBC Worldwide Channel has commissioned more than 20 hours of original content. Recent titles include Free Rein, Year of Adventures, The Kangaroo Gang: Thieves by Appointment, Dripping in Chocolate, Some Say Love and Come Dine With Me South Africa.

David Weiland, the senior VP of programming for TV Channels, said, “I’m delighted to welcome Tracy at a crucial—and very exciting—stage of our commissioning strategy. BBC Worldwide Channels is committed to growing the number of high quality and distinctive original commissions for the international portfolio. Tracy brings a wealth of experience to the role and I have every confidence that she will build on the progress we’ve made so far, and create new opportunities for the business as we diversify from a largely acquisitions-based content pipeline.”
 
Forsyth added, “I am thrilled to be joining BBC Worldwide Channels at such a pivotal time. Their reputation is already immense within the global market and my intention is to consolidate this and move commissioning forward in a bold and exciting way.”