Charlotte Moore, the outspoken BBC Chief Content Officer, has announced her resignation from her £468,000-a-year position, effective later this year.
Known for her leadership during a challenging period for the BBC, Moore is set to take on new roles as CEO of Left Bank Pictures and EVP, Creative Director of International Production at Sony Pictures Television.
A Pivotal Career Shift to Left Bank Pictures
At 56 years old, Moore will leave the BBC, where she has been a key figure since joining in 2006 as a commissioning executive for documentaries.
Her new role at Left Bank Pictures will see her succeed Andy Harries, who will continue his involvement as an executive producer at the company, taking on the role of executive chairman.
Moore’s shift comes amid efforts within the BBC to drive a ‘culture change,’ signaling that her departure is a significant moment in the broadcaster’s ongoing transformation.
Impactful Tenure at BBC During a Turbulent Time
Over the years, Moore became synonymous with successful BBC content, notably commissioning the hit show The Great British Bake Off. However, her time in charge wasn’t without controversy.
In 2014, she faced criticism after it was revealed she stayed at the luxury Sunset Marquis hotel in Los Angeles for six nights, with a bill nearing £1,200.
More recently, Moore’s comments about the handling of disgraced former BBC news anchor Huw Edwards, who was convicted of downloading child abuse images, sparked public debate.
Her remark that “hindsight is a wonderful thing” in response to the scandal stirred mixed reactions.
Resignation Announcement and Reflections on Her Time at the BBC
In her resignation statement, Moore expressed gratitude for her time as BBC’s Chief Content Officer, calling it an “honor” to serve during a time of significant change.
She reflected on the achievements of her team, noting her pride in the programming they had delivered together.
Moore spoke highly of the BBC, describing it as an extraordinary place that fosters risk-taking, but emphasized that the time had come for a new challenge and the opportunity to return to showmaking.
BBC Director-General Tim Davie Pays Tribute to Moore’s Leadership
Tim Davie, the BBC Director-General, praised Moore’s visionary leadership, calling her a “creative powerhouse” who made a lasting impact at the BBC.
He lauded her unwavering commitment to homegrown storytelling and her history of supporting creatives.
Under Moore’s leadership, the BBC saw ambitious programming and bold decisions, transforming the corporation’s content offerings.
Charlotte Moore’s Storied Career at the BBC
Moore’s BBC career has seen her rise through the ranks.
She was previously director of BBC Content from 2016 to 2020, overseeing the corporation’s channels, BBC iPlayer, and BBC Sports.
As controller of BBC One from 2013 to 2016, she was instrumental in bringing some of the network’s biggest hits to life, including Doctor Foster and Planet Earth.
Her career took another turn when she succeeded Kim Shillinglaw in 2016, who left after overseeing the reinvention of Top Gear. Moore’s ability to navigate and lead through major challenges has left a lasting impact on the broadcaster.
Looking Ahead to New Opportunities at Left Bank Pictures and Sony Pictures Television
As Moore prepares to leave the BBC, she expressed her excitement about joining Left Bank Pictures and Sony Pictures Television.
With a new adventure on the horizon, Moore is eager to return to the creative side of the industry, managing and producing content once again.
Her departure from the BBC marks the end of an era, but she leaves behind a legacy of bold and impactful decisions that have shaped the broadcaster’s content landscape.