Channel 4 controller of film and drama to step down

Channel 4 has announced that Tessa Ross will be stepping down as controller of film and drama later this year, having been appointed chief executive of the National Theatre.

After joining the broadcaster in 2000, Ross became head of Film4 in 2003, before taking on her current role in 2008.

Under Ross, Film4 has developed and financed a range of bold and distinctive films, including 12 Years a Slave, Slumdog Millionaire and The Last King of Scotland.

Commenting on her departure, David Abraham, Channel 4’s chief executive, said: “Tessa has made as big a contribution to Channel 4 as anyone in its history. I would like to personally thank her for her extraordinary commitment, talent and leadership over 13 remarkable years.

“Tessa’s job is one of the most coveted in film, both in the UK and internationally, and while she leaves big shoes to fill, we will shortly begin the task of identifying a new leader for the next chapter of Film4’s story. Meanwhile our commitment to investing in independent British film remains undimmed and we have every intention of building on the extraordinary reputation Tessa has created.”

Ross – who will remain in post until September 2014 – said that she leaves behind a “dedicated” and “passionate” team.

“It’s been an absolute honour to work with the writers, directors, producers and the many other talented people I’ve collaborated with during my time here, relationships I look forward to continuing,” she said.