Diedre Brennan promoted to director of channels, BBC Worldwide Australasia

Previously director of television for BBC Worldwide Australia, the new role will see Brennan in charge of the ongoing development of BBC's local channel portfolios in Australia and New Zealand, including offerings such as UK TV, BBC Knowledge, and CBeebies. She will also manage local operations for BBC World News, and coordinate the channels' branded non-linear services and the ongoing rollout of the BBC iPlayer.

Brennan will report to Jana Bennett, president of worldwide networks and the globall BBC iPlayer. She will also work closely with Tony Iffland, and (after April), his eventual successor as general manager for BBC Worldwide Australia.

“Deirdre has an unrivalled knowledge and understanding of the Australian subscription television business," Iffland said. "Coupled with a real passion and flair for the content that our consumers enjoy, she will be an excellent leader for our growing portfolio of channels."

Brennan said she had acheived a great deal in her previous role, and was looking forward to building on that success. "This new role gives me the opportunity to focus on leading and developing our channels business in he territory to great new heights."