Ex-Sky factual chief Poppy Dixon named BBC’s head of docs in reshuffle

Former Sky factual director Poppy Dixon has re-emerged as the BBC’s new head of documentaries, as the UK public service broadcaster continues to reshuffle its senior unscripted leadership team.

Poppy Dixon

Dixon stepped down from her position as pay TV broadcaster Sky’s director of documentaries and factual last September.

She has now joined the BBC after the corporation created two new director roles in February to “reflect the growing importance of factual and entertainment content.” Former NBCUniversal exec Ed Havard was hired as director of entertainment and Fiona Campbell was promoted to director of factual.

Dixon will report to Campbell, who oversees documentaries, international factual strand Storyville, specialist factual and arts and classical music TV.

Starting her new role in August, Dixon is tasked with leading the editorial vision and strategic direction for the BBC’s documentary output. Her remit also includes shaping a slate that reflects the diversity of stories from across the UK and around the world.

Dixon brings experience in commissioning, developing and producing premium factual programming. She spent five years at Sky, delivering docs such as Otto Baxter: Not a F***ing Horror Story, Lockerbie and Boyzone: No Matter What.

She also oversaw the ordering of factual content for both Sky Crime and Sky Nature.

Prior to Sky, Dixon worked in production and development at companies such as Raw and Lightbox.

Campbell said: “Poppy’s creative energy, editorial leadership and proven track record in delivering standout documentary programming make her ideally placed to drive this genre forward, ensuring we continue to offer audiences ambitious, innovative and world-class documentaries.”

Dixon said: “BBC documentaries have inspired me throughout my life and career, so it is an enormous honour to join this world-class team, and to help shape its future through this pivotal time for the organisation.

“In a rapidly evolving media landscape, I see huge opportunities to innovate and to build on the BBC’s phenomenal creative strengths. I’m really excited to work closely with our vibrant, talented documentary community across the UK, and together build a slate to engage, captivate and entertain BBC audiences wherever they find their content.”