Mark Linsey Shifts Focus to L.A. as BBC Studios Searches for New Global Scripted Chief

Mark Linsey, BBC Studios’ key figure in scripted content based in Los Angeles, is shifting to a full-time role focusing exclusively on the U.S. scripted market. This strategic pivot comes as BBC Studios actively searches for a new global managing director to oversee its scripted division. Since relocating to L.A. in 2023, Linsey has led significant projects, including the successful adaptation of CBS’s Ghosts. He will remain in his role during the ongoing recruitment process.

The global scripted strategy leadership will transition to a new drama and comedy executive, with BBC Studios Productions chief Zai Bennett initiating the search. BBC Studios manages both in-house drama and comedy teams and owns independent production companies like Clerkenwell (producers of Baby Reindeer), Baby Cow (Steve Coogan’s company), and House Productions.

Bennett praised Linsey’s contributions, stating, “Mark’s decision to focus solely on Los Angeles highlights our commitment to expanding our scripted growth in the U.S., while continuing to support outstanding UK producers and labels. His leadership over the past five years has delivered bold, distinctive, and award-winning scripted dramas and comedies.” Recently, Bennett reshuffled the unscripted division, expanding factual content under Kate Ward, with Karl Warner and Suzy Lamb heading reality and entertainment.

Dutch Public Broadcaster Chief to Lead Banijay Benelux

Sandra Hilster, formerly head of Dutch public broadcaster KRO-NCRV, is set to lead Banijay Entertainment’s Benelux operations. She replaces Peter Lubbers, who recently stepped down. Hilster will manage Banijay’s extensive Benelux portfolio, overseeing local versions of popular reality formats such as Big Brother, Deal or No Deal, and Survivor.

With nearly 300 productions under her oversight at KRO-NCRV and 13 years running her own media consultancy, Silverlining Media, Hilster brings vast expertise. Banijay CEO Marco Bassetti praised her “unrivaled career across production and broadcasting” and entrepreneurial spirit, positioning her to drive growth and innovation across Banijay’s ten labels in the region.

UKTV Content Chief Richard Watsham to Exit After 14 Years

After 14 years, Richard Watsham, Chief Creative Officer and Global Director of Acquisitions at BBC Studios/UKTV, will leave his role in September. Since joining UKTV in 2011, Watsham has been instrumental in hits like Taskmaster, which recently moved to Channel 4, Emma Willis: Delivering Babies, and the Bergerac reboot.

As Chair of the Creative Diversity Network, Watsham has championed increased representation in the UK television industry. UKTV CEO Marcus Arthur highlighted Watsham’s transformative impact on the network’s content and audience growth. Watsham credited his colleagues for their exceptional passion and expertise, emphasizing the unique strength of UKTV despite leaner resources compared to competitors. He expressed confidence that his path will cross with UKTV again in the future.