The BBC has appointed James Horton as the new Director of Production for BBC Local services.
He will lead BBC Local news and audio production teams across England and oversee the corporation’s new local strategy.
This strategy involves “reshaping” local services to deliver “greater online impact and more original journalism.” However it will include local radio station mergers and a number of job cuts, plus the creation of regional investigative reporting teams and a wider range of local programming through BBC Sounds.
“I have dedicated my entire career to the BBC’s local services across England and it’s a real privilege to take on this new role,” said Horton.
“Our connection with local audiences has never been more important and I’m looking forward to working closely with – and supporting – our superb local teams across England as we introduce the new plans.”
Horton will lead a workforce of more than 2000 staff across more than 39 BBC Local bases.
He started his career as a Regional News Trainee in 1999. He’s been BBC England’s Head of East and South East regions and most recently Acting Director of BBC England.
In the new role he’ll report to Rhodri Talfan Davies, BBC Director of Nations, who said:
“Jason is an outstanding leader and has been a passionate champion of the BBC’s local services for many years. As an accomplished regional leader over many years, he is expertly placed to lead the modernisation of our services over the coming months.”
