Jackson replaces Garvie at BBC Worldwide

BBC Worldwide has appointed Helen Jackson as its new managing director of content and production to replace Wayne Garvie.

In January, Garvie will join All3Media - the superindie which owns the makers of shows such as Skins, Hollyoaks and Midsomer Murders - as the firm's new managing director of international production.

Jackson is currently Worldwide's director of independents, having launched the organisation's Indie Unit in 2000 to manage all TV acquisitions from the sector. She has also been acting managing director of content and production ever since Garvie announced his departure in September.

She will now take on the role permanently, providing leadership for Worldwide's television content business, including all international formats and production.

"Helen's appointment as MD of content and production is richly deserved," said Worldwide chief executive John Smith, to whom Jackson will report in her new role.

"Her ability to build and navigate complex commercial partnerships across the UK production landscape has earned her great respect from the industry and helped fund many of Britain's favourite television hits.

"It was obvious to me that Helen step up and take a wider leadership role of our relationship with the creative industry on global scale."

Jackson added: "This is one of the best jobs in the business, working with the best talent and the best content, both in the UK and around the world.

"We have a formidable team here and leading such a brilliant set of minds is both daunting and exciting - we've built up a lot of momentum and there is a real energy about what more we can achieve."

BBC Worldwide's content and production team recently expanded into talent brand management, including a development deal with Location, Location, Location stars Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer.