Zai Bennett to Leave BBC Three for Sky Atlantic

LONDON: Zai Bennett, the controller of BBC Three, is leaving the company to take on the role of director of Sky Atlantic.

Bennett joined the BBC in 2011, during which time he saw the channel record its all-time highest share in the 16-to-34 demo. He now heads to Sky Atlantic as director of the channel.

Bennett said: “I've hugely enjoyed working at BBC Three, but this felt like an opportunity I couldn't turn down. I leave BBC Three on top form with its highest ever viewing share and six nominations at this year’s BAFTAs. I will miss working with the outstanding channel and commissioning teams, the BBC is lucky to be home to some of the most creative and inspiring people in television and it's been a privilege to learn from them in my time here.”

Danny Cohen, BBC director of television, added: “Zai has been a fantastic controller of BBC Three and has led the channel to great success, in terms of quality, awards and audience performance. He’s a true gentleman and I will miss working with him.”