New Acting Channel Editor for BBC Three

LONDON: Sam Bickley has been named acting channel editor for BBC Three, taking over from Zai Bennett, who is leaving the BBC next month.

Bickley has been responsible for commissioning across BBC One, Two and Three since joining the BBC in 2010. Bickley is currently the head of commissioning for documentaries and features for BBC Three, and is also the joint head of BBC One documentaries, a role which she will continue to serve in.

Bickley said: “I have worked on BBC Three for many years, watching this innovative channel grow. Zai and the team have built a vibrant, exciting and diverse BBC Three with amazing reach and I feel privileged to be asked to follow in his footsteps. I will continue to navigate Three through the year ahead with some amazing new shows to come.”

Danny Cohen, the BBC's director of television, added: “Sam has a deep understanding of the BBC Three audience and a passion for reaching young viewers. This period running the BBC Three television service will allow her to put all of this skill and experience to powerful use."