UKTV hires Sky creative chief

UK multichannel broadcaster UKTV has appointed an executive from satcaster Sky to lead its creative services team across its portfolio of 10 channels.

As creative director, Scott Russell will oversee all UKTV’s creative output, including its new media activity and the network’s recently-launched digital brand UKTV Play. On-air promotional trailers, continuity and navigation, off-air advertising and brand development will also fall under his remit.

Russell will lead a team of more than 20 people, including a group of Red Bee Media staff, based within the broadcaster’s new office in Hammersmith.

He will report to UKTV’s marketing director, Simon Michaelides.

In his previous role as head of creative for Sky Movies and Sky Store, Russell launched Sky Movies Disney, the first coproduced Disney channel.

He also previously headed up creative for Living TV, where he oversaw programme launches including Britain’s Next Top Model, Greys Anatomy and Criminal Minds.