BBC Daytime hires new controller

The British Broadcasting Corporation has hired a new controller with experience at the broadcaster to be the controller of BBC Daytime. 

Damian Kavanagh, who had been working as the head of features and factual formats at the BBC's rival, Channel 4, is returning to the company he left in March of last year. He had served there as the man in charge of children's output on CBBC.

“It was a very difficult decision to leave Channel 4, but BBC Daytime has a unique range of top-quality content, from The One Show to programs like Father Brown, Pointless and Great Railway Journeys," said Kavanagh. "I really can’t wait to get started.”

The move comes as incoming BBC director general Tony Hall continues to adjust the company into his vision. Hall is replacing George Entwistle, who resigned late last year due to editorial mistakes and the Jimmy Savile ordeal.

Kavanagh will report directly to BBC One controller Danny Cohen. He will be responsible for all programming on the daytime at BBC One and BBC Two, as well as the 6 to 7 p.m. hour on BBC Two.

Damian has a fantastic blend of editorial and scheduling experience, and he’s a team-player. I’m very certain that he will build on the great success of Liam Keelan and the talented daytime team," Cohen said.