Richard Woolfe quits Sky for Five

Richard Woolfe is to quit his role at Sky as director of programmes for Sky1, 2 and 3 to become channel controller at Five.

Five's chairman and chief executive Dawn Airey confirmed that Woolfe would join the broadcaster with responsibilities for commissioning, scheduling and overall strategy on the main channel. Ben Gale, who only joined Five in March to succeed Jay Hunt, will leave.

"Richard is the greatest showman working in British television today.

“He has a sixth sense for commissioning and producing popular programming that truly strikes a chord with viewers. He will bring a tremendous energy, creativity and chutzpah to the Five brand and I’m thrilled to be working with him again.

"I’d also like to thank Ben for the great job he has done in difficult circumstances but I feel at this time Five needs someone with a different programming background and crucially, experience in turning around channels.”

Woolfe has been working at Sky since April 2006 after joining the broadcaster from Living TV.

"I relish a challenge and the opportunity to reinvigorate Five with Dawn and the team is simply irresistible. I will miss Sky1 - but I know I’m leaving the channel in good health and in the very capable hands of what is without a doubt one of the best teams in telly.

"Now I can't wait to put Entertainment at the heart of the Five to complement and build upon the existing successful programme brands, put the channel in the spotlight, and delight viewers of all ages."

During his tenure at the top of Sky1 he oversaw the launch of a new brand and the launch of key entertainment shows including the new version of Gladiators.