Category: CBBC
Date: 24.06.2005
Printable version
Anne Gilchrist has been appointed to CBBC's first dedicated role for managing the relationship with independents, it was announced today by the new Controller of CBBC Alison Sharman.
This newly-created post of Executive Editor, Independents and Events signals Alison's intent for CBBC to provide its audience with the best children's content, wherever it comes from, and to ensure the commissioning system is truly meritocratic, flexible and fair.
Alison Sharman said: "Working with independents and building positive partnerships is going to be increasingly vital to the success of CBBC and I am delighted that Anne Gilchrist has decided to accept this challenge."
Anne's current role as Head of Entertainment for CBBC has meant she has both commissioned and been responsible for some of CBBC's best known and most popular programmes such as Blue Peter and Dick and Dom In Da Bungalow.
In her new role she will focus exclusively on collaborating with independents across all the genres.
Due to its specialist nature the Head of CBBC Drama will continue to work with suppliers of drama both inside and outside the BBC, therefore giving indies two routes into CBBC.
Speaking of her appointment, Anne said: "My appointment means that there will be equal access for both independent and in-house suppliers, something which I believe is very important.
"I'm very excited take on this key role and look forward to working closely with Alison in helping her to shape and drive through her creative vision for CBBC."
Before moving to CBBC Anne worked closely with Lorraine Heggessey as channel executive for BBC ONE. Prior to that she was Head of Development for CBBC.
This year the BBC has completely restructured its commissioning system to ensure the process is now simpler, faster and fairer.
This latest appointment ensures that there is clarity and equal access across all the genre areas, and will help put the window of creative competition (WOCC) into action.
Notes to Editors
CBBC is the generic term for the BBC's children's programming and online services, and incorporates:
CBBC and CBeebies programming on BBC ONE and BBC TWO;
The CBBC Channel and CBeebies, the BBC's subscription-free, dedicated children's digital channels, which launched in February 2002;
CBBC is aimed at six to 12-year-olds, and CBeebies is aimed at pre-school children;
CBBC online and interactive services.
