BBC Studios Splits Factual Arm

BBC Studios has created a separate specialist factual productions unit out of its factual division.

Alan Holland, former head of the documentary unit, will lead the new division. The specialist factual unit will focus on subjects such as history, arts, music and culture in factual programming. It is already working on a slate of commissions for the BBC and third parties.

Holland has produced programs across a wide range of genres, from specialist factual (What’s the Matter With Tony Slattery?, People’s History of the NHS) to consumer and crime (Watchdog, Crimewatch) and live events (Stargazing Live, The Pride of Britain Awards, D-Day 75).

The move creates two separate teams, each with its own editorial focus and leadership.

A new documentaries head to replace Holland will be appointed in due course.