Ex-BBC Children’s content boss Cheryl Taylor resurfaces at Zodiak Kids & Family

Zodiak Kids & Family Studio UK has appointed former BBC Children’s head of content Cheryl Taylor to take over from Steven Andrew as creative director.

Cheryl Taylor

Taylor joins the Banijay Kids & Family-owned studio later this month having left the BBC after more than 15 years in March 2021.

Taylor was previously head of content at BBC Children’s, responsible for commissioning 500 hours of multi-genre content per year across CBeebies, CBBC and BBC iPlayer.

Prior to this she held various commissioning roles at the BBC including controller of BBC comedy commissioning and controller of CBBC. She joined the corporation in 2005 from the independent production sector.

Taylor will work with Andrew, who is retiring from the industry, until the spring to ensure a seamless transition, Banijay said.

Andrew joined Zodiak in 2011 from CBBC and has been responsible for programmes including Secret Life of Boys, Spy School, Flatmates and The Lodge, made with a range of international partners, during his tenure.

He has also been developing and executive producing the upcoming international drama Silverpoint with CBBC and ZDF and Ted’s Top Ten for CITV.

Taylor will be jointly reporting to Banijay Kids & Family CEO Benoit Di Sabatino and Zodiak Kids & Family UK chief operating officer Gwen Hughes.

As well as Zodiak Kids & Family, Banijay Kids & Family incorporates Monello Productions and Mr Bean and Charlie & Lola producer Tiger Aspect Kids & Family.

Taylor said: “I’m honoured to be picking up the reins from Steven – he’s been responsible for an exceptional canon of work and has always demonstrated enviable flair for growing popular titles and nurturing new talent.”