BBC spirits Tom Sherry away from Red

BBC Studios has appointed a Red Production Company exec to lead its Salford-based drama operation and secure new business.

Tom Sherry

Tom Sherry becomes head of Drama North at BBC Studios, which launched as a commercial subsidiary of the UK pubcaster in April and makes programmes for the BBC as well as other UK and international broadcasters.

Sherry worked across development and new commissions at Red as an executive producer, with his credits including Ordinary Lies, New Tricks and Paranoid.

His remit at BBC Studios includes establishing a new team to create shows for a variety of channels and audiences, building on Drama North productions such as In the Flesh and From Darkness.

Nick Betts, director of scripted, said: “In BBC Studios we’re focused on attracting, retaining and offering creative talent from around the UK the best possible creative opportunities so we can continue to make quality drama, enjoyed by audiences across the globe.”

Sherry added that being “based in Salford presents a fantastic opportunity to tap into the huge array of talent in the region.” He starts his new role immediately and reports into Betts.

Earlier this year BBC Studios appointed Simon Winstone from Red Planet Pictures to head up its Wales-based drama division.