Sam Jackson has been named as the new Controller of BBC Radio 3.
The announcement has been made as the station prepares to move at least half of its production hours to Salford.
Taking over from Alan Davey, who will leave the role in March, Jackson will be responsible for running the station and the delivery of the annual BBC Proms.
“BBC Radio 3 is unlike any other station: a network delivering ambitious, unique content, with live classical music at its core,” he said.
“This ambition, quality and diversity must stay at the heart of everything Radio 3 and the BBC Proms deliver. I’m thrilled to be tasked with driving both Radio 3 and the Proms forward, with the help of brilliant people across the BBC and the wider music sector.”
Jackson started his career as a runner for the BBC Proms and has since worked across broadcasting and the recorded music industry, collaborating with some of the best known names in classical and jazz. Most recently he was Executive Vice-President of Global Classics & Jazz for Universal Music Group, managing teams both in London and Berlin.
He’s also worked in the commercial sector, running 3 national radio brands – Classic FM, Smooth and Gold.
“I’m delighted that Sam will be joining us as Controller of Radio 3, leading the strategy for classical music across the BBC. Sam’s track record in broadcasting, love of classical music and inspirational leadership will be crucial to the BBC’s ongoing commitment to bring great music to everyone,” added Lorna Clarke, BBC Director of Music.
He will work alongside David Pickard, Director of BBC Proms, and Simon Webb, who was recently announced as the BBC’s first Head of Orchestras and Choirs.
