EXCLUSIVE: We have more on the race to replace Charlotte Moore as the BBC‘s content supremo.
After revealing earlier this month that there were three top contenders for the most powerful creative job in British television, audio, and streaming, MyRumors hears one of the trio is now not in the running.
Industry sources and BBC insiders said Patrick Holland, Banijay UK’s executive chairman, is staying put at the French production giant.
Holland was considered to be the leading external candidate, even though he told colleagues that he was happy to remain at Banijay UK, where he has been since 2022.
BBC sources speculated that salary has been a decisive factor for some external candidates, as the corporation struggles to compete with deep-pocketed commercial counterparts. Moore is paid £468,000 ($628,000).
The Holland development, as well Netflix UK chief Anne Mensah ruling herself out, has cemented Kate Phillips‘ position as the candidate to beat.
Phillips, the BBC’s unscripted boss and interim chief content officer, has the support of many colleagues at the corporation, while a number of powerful producers are pulling for her to get the job.
Sources said Phillips is skillfully caretaking in the content chief role as Moore prepares to leave the BBC’s New Broadcasting House headquarters next week.
BBC Studios Productions CEO Zai Bennett was thought to be the third strong contender for the job. Others linked include Tom McDonald, the New York-based executive vice president of Nat Geo, and Dan McGolpin, the director of iPlayer and channels.
Others have ruled themselves out. This includes Jay Hunt, Apple TV+’s boss in Europe, and Channel 4’s content supremo Ian Katz. Sources said Apple executive Alison Kirkham was considered, but is said to be happy in her current role. Liam Keelan, Disney’s former EMEA originals chief, is not in the running.
Headhunters Grace Blue and Ibison have helped steer the BBC recruitment process, with director general Tim Davie taking a personal interest.
Moore is stepping down as chief content officer after four years to join Left Bank Pictures as CEO. She will also oversee international creative output for Sony Pictures Television.