Outgoing BBC 5 Radio Live Controller Jonathan Wall has thanked staff for “all the dedication, the spirit, the laughs, the sticking together through the tough times” and confirmed he will retain a presence in MediaCityUK for his new role.
As Prolific North reported yesterday, Wall is leaving 5 Live after 21 years to become the first Controller of BBC Sounds.
In an email to 5 Live staff, he wrote: “It’s going to feel a bit strange for me because 21 of my 25 years at the BBC have been spent working at this radio station. For the last 11 years I have been managing it, first as Deputy Controller and then Controller for the last six and a half.
“My last day will be Tuesday 23rd July and then I start the new job in mid-August. My job will be advertised in the next few weeks. From 24th July, you couldn’t be in better hands with the double act of Richard Maddock (Acting Controller) and Heidi Dawson (Managing Editor) overseeing things.
“I know you will give them as much support as you did for me. I will spend three days a week in London for the new role initially and the rest of the week here at MediaCityUK. One of the best things about the new job is that I get to stay close to programme makers across all the stations, including of course the podcast kings and queens at 5 Live.”
Wall, who began his career at Radio Humberside, was Editor of 5 live Sport before being appointed Deputy Controller and Commissioning Editor of 5 live in July 2008. He stepped up to Controller in February 2013.
He added: “In truth, it’s a mixed emotions kind of day. I’m excited about a new challenge within the BBC. I’m also leaving the best job I could ever have dreamed of. It’s been the greatest privilege of my career.
“Thank you for all the dedication, the spirit, the laughs, the sticking together through the tough times, and all the incredible support you have given me.
“It’s the greatest radio station in the world and you are all going to make it better and better. I will make sure I see as many of you as I can over the next fortnight to thank you in person.”
