Kate Oates, a former producer of Coronation Street, has been named as the new Head of Drama Productions at BBC Studios.
She’ll lead the biggest drama production hub outside of London and report directly to Mark Linsey, President, Scripted Productions.
Oates joined the BBC in 2018, having been producer of Coronation Street (2016-18) and Emmerdale (2013-2016).
As Senior Executive Producer and later Head of Continuing Drama, it meant she was the only person to have helmed all 3 of the UK’s top continuing dramas.
In the new role, she will continue to have responsibility for EastEnders, as well as Casualty, Father Brown, Sister Boniface, River City, Pobol Y Cwm, and new comedy-drama Anfamol.
Her team will also manage Silent Witness when it moves to the West Midlands; and a new slate of dramas for domestic and international markets.
“I’m beyond delighted to move into the role of Head of Drama Productions at BBC Studios,” she said.
“Together with my incredible team, we are looking forward to creating new dramas to exist alongside our already iconic brands, as well as innovative training opportunities that we believe will benefit our industry as a whole.”
Projects in development include Steven Knight’s as-yet-untitled University drama, in partnership with Kudos.
Her new senior leadership team include Deborah Sathe as Creative Director; Siân O’Callaghan, as Director of Production.
“Kate has a proven track record as a creative leader of outstanding, award winning popular drama. She already demonstrates her passion and commitment to talent and storytelling across the UK and I know she is going to deliver more exciting new drama in this wider role,” added Mark Linsey, President, Scripted Productions.
