Independent producer Mentorn, which made A Very Social Secretary and series Robot Wars, has recruited former BBC director of factual and learning John Willis as its chief executive.

Mentorn makes current affairs shows like Question Time and has received praise for its political and docu-dramas output.

Speaking to The Guardian, Willis said that he wanted to see the company make a renewed push into entertainment.

Willis stepped down from the BBC, where he held his last position for three years, in September following job cuts in his division. He presided over programmes such as Planet Earth, The Secret Policeman and Live 8.

His new task will also involve taking the role of group creative director of Mentorn's owner, Tinopolis, the UK's fifth largest independent producer.

Tinopolis shares were up yesterday following the announcement of Willis' appointment this morning.

The company also said it expected to report a 351% increase in revenues to £47 million on last year, when it releases results in December.

The BBC announced last week that it would be putting Mentorn's Question Time, which the company has produced for seven years, out to tender.