UKTV names Sam Tewungwa as next CEO as Marcus Arthur’s role expands

BBC Studios-owned multichannel broadcaster UKTV has appointed Sam Tewungwa as CEO, following the expansion of current chief Marcus Arthur’s role.

Sam Tewungwa

Tewungwa, currently MD of UKTV, will take responsibility for the overall strategic direction and performance of the business.

He will lead UKTV’s portfolio of channels and its free streaming service, U, with a focus on strengthening partnerships to increase the scale, reach and distribution of the company’s brands and services.

Tewungwa joined BBC Studios in 2013 as commercial director for TV sales before moving into a broader commercial position. He played an integral role in the acquisition of UKTV by BBC Studios following the demerger of the Discovery joint venture. In 2019, he joined the UKTV board as chief commercial officer and in 2023 was appointed MD.

Tewungwa’s appointment follows the expansion of the remit of current UKTV CEO Marcus Arthur, who now leads a global portfolio with responsibility for all BBC Studios global channels and streaming services outside the US. Tewungwa will report to Arthur and takes up the role of CEO on April 1.

Arthur said: “Sam has a deep understanding of UKTV’s business. His commercial instinct, strategic clarity and ability to bring teams together consistently drive results. He anticipates both challenges and opportunities and has a clear view of where we are strong, where we are evolving and where we need to push harder. This is absolutely the right leadership decision for the next phase of UKTV’s growth.”

Sam Tewungwa said: “I’m honoured to be taking on the role of UKTV’s next CEO. While there are clear challenges across the market, I am optimistic about the future of our industry and the role UKTV can play within it. We have an exceptional team, much-loved brands, and a culture that is the envy of many across the sector. As part of the BBC Group, we benefit from real scale, ambition and opportunity. I’m confident UKTV will continue to flourish and grow, and I’m excited about what we will achieve together.”