BBC Worldwide names global programming and acquisitions boss

Jon Farrar

BBC Worldwide has appointed Jon Farrar to a new role, giving him responsibility for global programming and acquisitions.

In the newly-created senior VP, global programming and acquisitions role, Farrar will lead an eleven-strong team, reporting to George Dixon, BBC Worldwide’s global editorial director.

He will also appoint a head of acquisitions, Worldwide said.

Farrar has played a key role in shaping the editorial of BBC Worldwide’s channels and has also run the company’s branded services division.

Worldwide launched BBC First in Australia on Foxtel during the summer and will roll out the BBC Brit, BBC First and BBC Earth channels in several other territories including Eastern Europe during 2015.

Speaking about the appointment, George Dixon said: “In order for us to replicate the success of BBC First in Australia in other international markets it’s vital that we deliver our editorial and commercial goals, and a fully co-ordinated approach to acquisitions and scheduling is crucial in this endeavour.

He added: “Jon has played a key role in shaping the editorial strategy of our new brands and I’m delighted that he’s decided to take up this challenge.”

Farrar’s career in media began at BBC Worldwide in 1998 before he left to work at Viacom before returning to the commercial arm of the UK public broadcaster in 2010.