Five Announces Changes In Programming Department
Five has named Alex Menzies, currently deputy controller of features, as the channel’s new head of features.
It is one of several changes within the broadcaster’s programming department announced by Five’s director of programmes, Jay Hunt.
Head of factual entertainment, Steve Gowans, is to be given additional responsibility for exploiting the main channel’s content across its digital offerings, Five Life and Five US, and the title multi-channel commissioner.
Meanwhile Kim Peat, the channel’s controller of daytime, arts and religion, is leaving Five after nine years. Responsibility for daytime will now sit in the factual entertainment department while commissioning for arts and religion will remain in factual, overseen by incoming head of factual Ralph Lee, currently deputy head of factual at Channel 4.
Peat will work with the channel in a consultancy role over the coming months, continuing to manage and build relationships with the arts organisations and individuals who play an important role in the channel’s programming and profile.
Robi Dutta, currently deputy controller of factual, becomes commissioning editor in the factual entertainment and features departments. The changes will come into effect early next month.
Hunt said: “Alex is a supremely talented commissioning editor with a proven track record in features and a real flair for formatting. I am delighted he will be leading our search for more brand defining shows for Five.
“Steve’s role is expanding to take on multi-channel commissioning. With his background in strong factual entertainment titles, he is the ideal person to identify breakthrough shows for the whole Five family of channels.”
Lisa Opie, managing director, content, added: “Kim has played a pivotal role in bringing the arts to Five. She has been both a passionate advocate and a creative commissioner of arts and religious programming for the channel.
“We’re pleased that we’ll be retaining her expertise in the coming months as we continue to focus on innovative and fresh arts output for Five under the care of Ralph and the team.”
Five: 020 7550 5555 www.five.tv