BBC Global News Establishes COO Role

BBC Global News has appointed Charlie Villar to the newly-created post of chief operating officer.

Villar, who is currently the BBC’s director of tax, treasury and corporate finance, will take on the new role immediately. He will be responsible for the financial and operational leadership of the company, bringing together finance, engineering, internal and external communications, HR, and legal and business affairs. He will join the management team and will be one of two directors of the company, reporting to CEO Jim Egan. The appointment comes as the company expands to incorporate the advertising sales arm of the BBC.

Egan stated, “I am delighted to be welcoming Charlie to BBC Global News Ltd as our first chief operating officer. As we complete the expansion of the business and embark on a new phase for BBC World News and BBC.com, Charlie brings the ideal mix of private and public sector experience to the leadership team. High-quality commercially funded journalism has never been more important but it has also never been under greater pressure. Charlie’s appointment will bring expertise, energy and a fresh perspective to our enduring mission of staying true to the BBC’s unique editorial values and running a business which continues to be commercially successful.”

Villar added, “This is a hugely exciting time to be joining BBC Global News Ltd, especially as the business comes together with BBC Advertising. External market forces and changing consumer behaviors are resulting in the rapid evolution of how people across the world consume news on TV, online and mobile devices; ‘fake news’ and social media are causing audiences to seek out reliable, trusted sources; and media companies are looking for new business models to be fit for purpose in a demanding environment. Global News Ltd benefits from the BBC’s outstanding reputation for high quality, together with its deep experience of responding to changes in technology and audience behavior. I am really looking forward to joining the team to guide the business as we respond to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”