BBC Worldwide has today promoted Marcus Arthur to its Board, appointing him as Managing Director, Global Brands.

 

Currently Managing Director, BBC Magazines (London) & Digital Delivery, Arthur will report directly in to John Smith, BBC Worldwide's Chief Executive.

 

In his new role, effective 31 March 2008, Arthur will continue to lead on the strategy, implementation and development of all BBC Worldwide's passion sites, including radiotimes.com, bbcgoodfood.com and topgear.com.

 

He will also assume management responsibility for both the Top Gear brand, one of BBC Worldwide's most important and fast-growing properties, and Lonely Planet, the leading travel information group which BBC Worldwide acquired in October 2007.

 

Etienne de Villiers, Non-executive Chairman of BBC Worldwide, commented: "As BBC Worldwide continues to build its position as a major global media company, it is vital to establish and nurture our key brands across all platforms.

 

"Marcus's appointment to the Board gives two of BBC Worldwide's  success stories a forceful and dynamic champion, paving the way for continued growth and development."

 

John Smith, Chief Executive, BBC Worldwide, said: "Marcus's strategic insight, ability to cut through complex situations and proven team leadership skills will be invaluable as we build our top brands globally. He has already done a tremendous job leading the roll-out of our passion sites and will, I know, be a huge asset to our Board."

 

Marcus Arthur, Managing Director, Global Brands added: "This is a wonderful opportunity for me and all the many people committed to delivering on BBC Worldwide's ambitious growth strategy.

 

"In addition to my continued leadership of BBC Worldwide's passion sites, I look forward to working with Adam Waddell and his team as we underline Top Gear's position as the world’s leading motoring media brand.

 

"I'm also delighted to be steering the Lonely Planet business in the next phase of its growth and working closely with Judy Slatyer, Lonely Planet’s CEO, to identify even more synergies."

 

Marcus Arthur began his career in advertising sales for BBC Good Food at Redwood Publishing, which was then majority-owned by BBC Magazines.

 

When BBC Worldwide brought all its titles in-house, Arthur became publisher of the Food Group of Magazines in 1997 and over the next three years added Gardening, Homes and Top Gear titles to his brief.

 

In 2002 Radio Times was added to his responsibilities, and in 2005 he was promoted to Managing Director, BBC Magazines (London).

 

Last year Marcus added Digital Delivery to his portfolio, overseeing delivery of the infrastructure for all BBC Worldwide’s passion sites.

 

 

Ali Jeremy / Jennie Allen