Category : BBC;
Worldwide
Date : 10.05.2004
Printable version
Jana Bennett,
Director of BBC Television, and Rupert Gavin, Chief Executive, BBC Worldwide,
jointly announced today the appointment of Paul Telegdy as Vice
President, Programming and Co-Productions in Los Angeles, bringing
together the West Coast-based activity of programme acquisition, co-production
and finished programme sales.
Reporting to Candace Carlisle, COO, BBC Worldwide Americas,
and George McGhee, the BBC's Controller of Programme Acquisitions, Paul
will take up his post on 1 June 2004.
Jana Bennett, who also has responsibility for BBC America,
said: "Uniting the BBC's various co-pros
and acquisitions in LA under one job is a major step forward in taking
a 'one BBC' approach to managing our business in these two areas on
the West Coast of America.
"Different editorial and
business relationships are required across the LA creative community
for the BBC, whether in acquiring or exploiting rights, and Paul will
work closely with the BBC Television's programme acquisitions, commissioners
and programme makers to ensure all opportunities are exploited.
"Paul's experience and skills are perfect to further
develop our business interests there."
Paul will build on the companys recent successes
in the market and in diversifying its client base in the drama and entertainment
genres.
He will work closely with BBC Worldwide's other businesses
in the US, and with the BBC Films team to ensure a co-ordinated approach
to the Los Angeles market.
Rupert Gavin said: "Paul's
experience and track record in sales and co-production will further
expand the BBC's presence in the important West Coast market.
"We are delighted to welcome him to the US team."
Paul joined the BBC in 1997 as Commercial Manager, Drama
and Entertainment from Primetime Television Associates Limited, where
he was responsible for sales to Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, UK,
Japan and North-east Asia.
Working within the BBC's Commercial Agency, he was
promoted to Head of Commercial Affairs Drama and Entertainment in 2000.
And in 2001 was promoted to his current position of
Commercial Director Drama, Entertainment and CBBC, where he is responsible
for investment and co-production deals of £40m per annum.
Recent major programming funding he has been responsible
for includes The Lost World, Pride and Charles II.
