Tessa Ross exits Channel 4

Channel 4’s controller of film and drama Tessa Ross is exiting the UK broadcaster to become CEO of Britain’s National Theatre.

Ross has developed a reputation as one of British drama’s key powerbrokers over the past 13 years at the broadcaster but is stepping down to take on the new role.

She joined Channel 4 in 2000 from the BBC’s independent commissioning group before being promoted to head of movie channel Film4 in 2003. She became controller, film and drama in 2008. In those capacitates, she helped finance movies such as Slumdog Millionaire and 12 Years a Slave, along with numerous Channel 4 TV dramas such as Shameless, Teachers, Not Only But Always, White Teeth and No Angels.

“Tessa has made as big a contribution to Channel 4 as anyone in its history,” said Channel 4 CEO David Abraham. “I would like to personally thank her for her extraordinary commitment, talent and leadership over 13 remarkable years.

“Tessa’s job is one of the most coveted in film, both in the UK and internationally, and while she leaves big shoes to fill, we will shortly begin the task of identifying a new leader for the next chapter of Film4’s story,” he added.

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining the National Theatre but it is with a heavy heart I leave this wonderful organisation and the brilliant people I’ve had the pleasure and privilege to work beside over the past 13 years,” said Ross.

She will remain in her post until September and then remain as chair of Channel 4’s Growth Fund Advisory Council.