BBC Worldwide hires ex-UKTV, Channel 4 commissioning execs

BBC Worldwide has expanded its commissioning team with execs from UKTV and Channel 4.

UKTV’s commissioning editor of entertainment Julie Swanston and Channel 4’s former commissioning editor of specialist factual Lucy Pilkington have joined the UK pubcaster’s commercial arm as executive producers.

Swanston will be responsible for generating entertainment content for BBCWW’s channels, including US cable channel BBC America, for whom she will be the main point of contact for indies and talent.

Pilkington, who recently began a freelance role at BBCWW is a former head of factual formats for October Films.

Both report to BBCWW’s VP, commissioning Tracy Forsyth. Swanston will also report into BBC America’s VP, original programming, Rachel Smith.

Upcoming BBCWW series include BBC Knowledge’s Million Dollar Intern, BBC Lifestyle’s Bill’s Kitchen: Notting Hill and BBC Entertainment’s Best in Town.