Tom Fussell Named BBC Studios’ Interim CEO

BBC Studios appointed CFO Tom Fussell to act as interim CEO from September 1, when current CEO Tim Davie becomes BBC director-general.

Fussell will lead BBC Studios on a temporary basis until the next BBC Studios CEO takes up their position. An open recruitment process for the next CEO is underway, with an appointment announcement expected by the fall.

Fussell has been CFO at BBC Studios since its formation by merger in 2018, and previously held the same role at BBC Worldwide and at Shine.

Sonia Magris, group finance director, will take on Fussell’s finance responsibilities in BBC Studios and become a member of the BBC Studios executive committee for the duration of his interim role. Fussell will remain chair of StudioWorks.

Davie said: “BBC Studios is in good hands with Tom as interim CEO, supported by the BBC Studios executive team. Tom will ensure that Studios continues to manage through the COVID-19 crisis, putting wellbeing first, while doing all it can to create and distribute distinctive and quality programs for our audiences at home and overseas. He is hugely liked and respected, and I am grateful he will lead the team while we search for a permanent CEO.”

Fussell said: “BBC Studios has a clear plan in place to drive creative hits, build stronger services and partner with major customers. These priorities will guide us as we navigate the very real challenges of COVID-19. As interim CEO, I will be working with the full BBC Studios team to come safely out of pause and to move our business plans on. I look forward to working closely with Tim’s successor when they take over as CEO.”