The Stage

BBC names Younge as new chief creative officer

Published Monday 15 June 2009 at 15:17 by Matthew Hemley

Pat Younge has been named as chief creative officer of the BBC’s production arm, BBC Vision Productions.

He replaces Peter Salmon, who recently became director of BBC North.

In his role, Younge, who last month announced he was stepping down as president and general manager of the Travel Channel, will be responsible for the largest content creator in the world, delivering shows such as Strictly Come Dancing, Doctor Who, Top Gear, Antiques Roadshow, EastEnders, Dragons’ Den and The One Show.

BBC Vision director Jana Bennett described the role as one “of the most significant” in UK broadcasting.

She said Younge “understands how audiences consume content across different platforms” and added: “He also brings with him exceptional leadership and management skills and an ability to spot and nurture both on and off-screen talent.”

At the Travel Channel, Younge was responsible for all programming, production, development and operations for the network.

Prior to this, he spent four years as head of programmes and planning for BBC Sport, where he was responsible for Grandstand, Sunday Grandstand and Ski Sunday.

Younge also spent two years as commissioning editor for multicultural programmes at Channel 4.

He said: “I’m really looking forward to returning to the BBC and the heart of BBC production, to work with a truly amazing team of people who excel in offering high quality content across the globe.”