Muller exits BBC for C5

UK terrestrial broadcaster Channel 5 (C5) has poached a BBC executive to be its new head of children’s.

Sarah Muller

Sarah Muller, creative director for scripted, animation and coproductions at CBBC Productions, is leaving the pubcaster after almost a decade to join the Viacom-owned network.

The exec will be responsible for the commissioning and acquisition of children’s programming for C5 and will also oversee its preschool programming block Milkshake.

Muller will report to C5’s chief operating officer, Paul Dunthorne, and general manager of Nickelodeon UK & Ireland, Alison Bakunowich. Muller will begin her new role on November 21.

She replaces Jessica Symons, who left in February after 10 years with the channel. Clair Robinson had held the role on an interim basis.

“Sarah has a wealth of experience in the children’s television industry across both live action and animation and her expertise will help us grow Milkshake into the leading pre-school destination for British families,” said Dunthorne.

Muller has developed projects including Danger Mouse, Strange Hill High, Harriet’s Army, Wolfblood, The Dumping Ground and Just William whilst at the BBC. Prior to joining BBC Children’s in 2007, she was MD of Elephant Productions, producer of series such as Grizzly Tales For Gruesome Kids, Animal School and Pop Skool.

C5 children’s programming includes Paw Patrol, Noddy, Toyland Detective, Peppa Pig and Wissper.