Richard Deverell, Controller, BBC Children's, today announced the appointment of Damian Kavanagh, Head of Planning and Scheduling for BBC THREE, as Independent Commissioning Executive and Head of Scheduling, CBBC and CBeebies.

In this joint role, he will work closely with Anne Gilchrist, Creative Director, CBBC, in developing and overseeing content from the independent sector.

Damian will also be responsible for scheduling two digital channels, CBBC and CBeebies, as well as for children's output on BBC ONE and BBC TWO. He will take an active role in developing formulating the content and brand strategy for CBBC.

Damian joined BBC Channel Management in 1997 where he has held various roles including Scheduler for the former BBC CHOICE and Schedule Manager, BBC ONE. He has been Head of Planning and Scheduling for BBC THREE since 2004.

Richard Deverell said: "I am delighted that Damian has decided to join BBC Children's. The children's television market is increasingly competitive and sophisticated, and Damian's role will be critical in helping to ensure that our brands and programmes stand out. He is the perfect choice for the role."

Anne Gilchrist said: "Damian has a phenomenal intuition for both programme content and scheduling. I'm absolutely thrilled he will be joining us. His experience will be invaluable in ensuring the very best content from independent producers reaches our audience."

Damian Kavanagh said: "I relish the opportunity to work for BBC Children's and am looking forward to being involved in helping to bring pioneering and imaginative content to younger viewers in this exciting and evolving TV landscape."

CBeebies is the top performing children's channel and CBBC is the second most popular children's channel (average share 2005).

BBC Children's is responsible for more than 200 hours of output each week.

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