Zai Bennett, the Managing Director of Content at Sky, will take on a new role at BBC Studios Productions. He has been appointed as the new CEO and Chief Creative Officer (CCO), beginning in November.
Bennett will oversee all production units, covering a range of genres including Global Entertainment, Factual, Scripted, Kids & Family, and Audio. This significant change marks Bennett’s next big career step.
Leadership Transition to BBC Studios
Zai Bennett, currently the Managing Director of Content at Sky, has been appointed as the new CEO and Chief Creative Officer (CCO) of BBC Studios Productions. His new role will commence in November.
Bennett will oversee all production units, both in the UK and globally. These units include various genres such as Global Entertainment, Factual, Scripted, Kids & Family, and Audio. He is excited about joining the team and helping maintain the BBC’s unique purpose and values.
Bennett’s Career at Sky
At Sky, Bennett was in charge of multiple entertainment services. These included Sky Atlantic, Sky Max, Sky Cinema, and Sky Kids. He also had responsibility for Sky’s free-to-air services like Sky Arts.
During his time at Sky, Bennett ordered numerous successful dramas. These included ‘Chernobyl,’ ‘Gangs of London,’ and ‘Patrick Melrose.’ He also managed to launch Sky Kids as a linear service in 2023.
Bennett’s contributions have been significant. His work helped in building and expanding Sky’s entertainment portfolio, making it more diverse and inclusive.
Earlier Career Highlights
Bennett’s career began with the launch of Channel 5. He later moved to ITV, where he helped launch ITV2, ITV3, and ITV4. His work there included commissioning popular shows like ‘The Only Way Is Essex.’
Bennett also served as the Director of Digital Channels at ITV. He commissioned well-known shows such as ‘Secret Diary of a Call Girl’ and ‘Celebrity Juice.’
In 2011, Bennett joined the BBC as the fourth controller of BBC Three. Under his leadership, the channel commissioned hits like ‘Bad Education’ and ‘People Just Do Nothing.’
Responsibilities and Goals at BBC Studios
Bennett is expected to build high-value, distributable intellectual property (IP) at BBC Studios. This includes maintaining returning series and key brands. He will also work on securing new commissions and expanding the international format pipeline.
He will report directly to the CEO, Tom Fussell, and become a part of the BBC Studio’s Executive Committee. His role is pivotal in propelling BBC Studios Productions forward.
Comments from BBC Executives
Tom Fussell, CEO of BBC Studios, expressed his excitement. “Zai’s risk-taking creative hit-rate speaks for itself. He has impact and gravitas and can propel BBC Studios Productions even faster forward,” Fussell stated.
Fussell highlighted Bennett’s diverse experience in genres like scripted comedy, drama, factual entertainment, and kids’ programmes. He believes Bennett’s relationships with top-tier creative talent will complement BBC Studios’ growth plans both domestically and globally.
BBC Studios’ Recent Financial Performance
BBC Studios generated revenues of £1.8bn last year. It marked the third consecutive year of profits surpassing £200m.
Zai Bennett’s appointment heralds an exciting new chapter for BBC Studios Productions. His vast experience and proven track record promise to drive the company forward. As he steps into his new role, the industry will be watching his next moves closely.