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BBC Studios names Robi Stanton EVP & GM of global media & streaming ANZ
MUMBAI: BBC Studios Australia & New Zealand has just made a bold move, appointing Robi Stanton as EVP & general manager of Global Media & Streaming for the region. If the name sounds familiar, that’s because she’s been a media heavyweight for over 25 years, shaping the industry with her expertise in distribution, commercial strategy, marketing, and advertising sales at some of the world’s biggest media companies-including CNN International Commercial, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Turner International. Now, she’s set to make waves at BBC Studios.
Working closely with Global Entertainment ANZ EVP & GM Kylie Washington, Stanton will spearhead content sales, channels and streaming, and advertising sales. Their mission? Delivering innovative, pan-business growth solutions that elevate BBC Studios’ footprint across Australia and New Zealand. No small feat—but if anyone can do it, it’s her.
Her appointment comes at a time when BBC Studios Global Media & Streaming ANZ is already firing on all cylinders. Recent milestones include enhancing BBC.com and the BBC app, launching six FAST channels on Nine, bringing BBC First to Sky NZ, extending natural history deals with Nine and TVNZ, and renewing a long-standing premium content partnership with ABC. It’s clear—BBC Studios is on a roll, and Stanton is here to push it even further.
With ambitious plans for content, digital platforms, and streaming services, BBC Studios is doubling down on its global media dominance. Stanton is expected to bring her strategic acumen to the table, further solidifying BBC’s standing as a content powerhouse.
One thing’s for sure—this is not just another corporate shuffle. It’s a game-changer for BBC Studios in Australia and New Zealand. The countdown begins—Robi joins later this month, and we’re here for the action.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
