BBC Storyville Appoints New Commissioning Editor

The BBC has tapped Philippa Kowarsky to be the new commissioning editor of its Storyville documentary brand.

In her new position, Kowarsky’s focus will be identifying and co-producing original documentary feature films from around the world, bringing unique stories and perspectives to audiences across the BBC’s platforms.

Kowarsky will report to Rose Garnett, director of BBC Film.

Kowarsky joins the BBC from Cinephil, the international sales and advisory firm that she founded in 1997 and where she is currently managing director. As a documentary producer, Kowarsky’s credits include Dror Moreh’s The Gatekeepers, Andre Singer’s Night Will Fall and Jonas Poher Rasmussen’s Flee.

In addition to Kowarsky’s appointment at the BBC, Jo Lapping is taking on an enhanced role as head of factual acquisitions, reporting to Sue Deeks, head of program acquisitions. Lapping will acquire both documentary films and factual programming for the BBC, working closely alongside Kowarsky at Storyville to expand the range of feature documentaries available to audiences across BBC channels and BBC iPlayer.

Kowarsky said: “I am thrilled to be joining the glorious Storyville on the BBC. Crossing over from Cinephil, my company of over 20 years—and from sales, distribution and production—to commissioning is a thrilling prospect. As a firm believer in public service television and its role in democracies, I’m proud to be working for the BBC. I’m looking forward to merging my love of great storytelling with Storyville’s and to upholding its commitment to reach and include audiences all over the U.K. It is an honor to follow this incredible legacy and continue the quest to find, nurture and support the best documentaries from around the globe. I’m excited to get going!”

Garnett added: “Philippa’s extraordinary experience and formidable reputation as a champion for bold, original stories and filmmakers make this a truly exciting appointment. We can’t wait to see where she takes Storyville next.”