BBC’s Rose takes regional comedy role

The BBC’s comedy department has appointed a new assistant commissioner based in the north of England as part of its intention to work with more talent from across the UK.

Hannah Rose

Based in Salford, Hannah Rose will work with talent in the North on new and existing titles.

Currently a producer and commissioning lead for comedy at BBC Sounds, Rose has previously developed and produced scripted and entertainment titles, working with established names such as Sofie Hagen while nurturing newer voices such as Jacob Hawley and Alison Spittle.

Rose will report to Shane Allen, director of BBC comedy commissioning, and takes up the new role on April 12.

Allen said: “Hannah lives and breathes comedy, her formidable experience on the live comedy scene coupled with her impressive portfolio of work at BBC Sounds make her a highly prized addition to the team.”

The appointment comes as the UK pubcaster announces a number of its news departments and shows will be relocating to Salford, Glasgow, Birmingham, Cardiff and Leeds as it continues its drive to become less London-centric.

As part of the BBC’s Across the UK plan, a new version of flagship channel BBC1 tailored to audiences in Yorkshire, the North-West and North-East will be launched and two new soap-style drama series, one based in the North of England and the another in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland will be commissioned over the next three years.

“Our mission must be to deliver for the whole of the UK and ensure every household gets value from the BBC,” said director general Tim Davie. “These plans will get us closer to audiences, create jobs and investment, and develop and nurture new talent.”

As part of the plan, the pubcaster’s Morning Live show has been renewed and will be based in Salford from next January.

Produced by BBC Studios, Morning Live is produced by Emma Morris and Rob Unsworth. It is commissioned by Carla-Maria Lawson, head of daytime and early peak, and the BBC commissioning editor is Rachel Platt.