BBC denies Jane Tranter speculation

Sources have indicated to Digital Spy that BBC controller of fiction Jane Tranter may quit her role to join the corporation's commercial arm overseas.

The BBC today denied that Tranter was considering accepting a US-based position with BBC Worldwide. In a statement, a spokesperson said: "There are no plans for Jane Tranter to change her role within the BBC."

Tranter joined the BBC in 1985 as a secretary in the radio drama department, and aside from a short spell at Carlton in the mid-1990s has had roles in BBC drama ranging from assistant floor manager on Bergerac to controller of drama commissioning, where she oversaw the development of long-running series including Spooks and Waking the Dead. In her current role, she oversees all drama, comedy and film output across the BBC and has responsibility for overseas acquisitions.

Speculation that Tranter may join BBC Worldwide America comes as the BBC seeks to bolster its international operations and maximise the returns its commercial unit generates for public service purposes in the UK.