News Broadcasting
Bill Hilary is BBC America president and CEO
MUMBAI: Bill Hilary has been appointed as BBC America president and CEO.
Hilary was formerly Comedy Central’s executive VP and GM. In his new position will be responsible for the development and operations of BBC America, including bbcamerica.com and BBC America On Demand, and for any other digital channels and services associated with the future growth of the brand.
BBC television channels director Jana Bennett added, “Bill’s leadership at Comedy Central has seen the channel garner both ratings and awards. Bill knows what makes both Americans and the British laugh. His understanding of the American audience and British talent, together with his knowledge of the BBC and British programmes, makes him uniquely qualified to head BBC America – recently described as the hottest network on TV.”
The new appointment represents a homecoming for Hilary. He had earlier joined the BBC in 1998 as the head of independent entertainment and comedy commissioning. the following year he was promoted to Head of Independent Commissioning in 1999, overseeing not only the BBC’s entertainment and comedy commissioning but also its drama and factual sections
Hilary said: “I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments of my team at Comedy Central – creating hit shows, driving ratings, and taking the brand to new heights. I am now thrilled to have the opportunity to drive BBC America to the next level.
“The channel has already established itself as a strong platform and is poised to enter the next phase of its development. With continued investment, new talent, great creative ideas and the energy of the BBC brand the future is very exciting.”
At Comedy Central Hilary oversaw the channel’s programming, marketing, and on-line functions, which includes scheduling, development, production, acquisitions and advertising, on-air/off-air creative, research and international sales. During Hilary’s four and half year stint at Comedy Central the channel saw consistent ratings and revenue growth, both up 24 per cent this year.
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
