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Press Releases
Jeff Smith appointed Head of Music at Radio 2
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BBC Radio 2 announced today that Jeff Smith is to become the network's Head of Music.
Jeff, currently Director of UK and International programming at Napster,
is to take on the role on 26 March 2007.
Jeff will take over from Colin Martin, who announced his retirement in December
2006.
Jeff says: "It's tremendously exciting for me to be joining BBC Radio 2 and
help shape the music policy of the most popular radio station in the UK.
"Technology is transforming our industry, and I look forward to working with
the music industry and my colleagues at Radio 2 to engage our listeners in the
very best music in innovative new ways."
Lesley Douglas, Controller, Radio 2 and BBC 6 Music says: "I'm delighted that
Jeff has decided to re-join the BBC.
"Colin Martin is a very hard act to follow
but I have no doubt that Jeff's love of music, industry experience and recent
role at Napster puts him a unique position to move Radio 2 forward.
"It is
crucial that we remain distinct in the market place and I believe that Jeff is
the person to embrace the full breadth of music on the network."
Leanne Sharman, Napster UK Vice-President and General Manager, says: "For the
BBC to recruit from Napster for such a pivotal role in UK radio indicates how
important digital has become in the development of the music industry.
"Jeff has
been a tremendous asset to us since we launched Napster three years ago
building a team and putting processes in place.
"We wish him well in the next
stage of his career."
Jeff joined Napster in 2004 where he was responsible for sourcing all content
and commissioning new programming initiatives and streamcasts.
He has accumulated more than 18 years programming experience in the UK radio
industry including BBC Radio 1, BBC World Service and Capital Radio (London).
He played a major role in the revitalisation of Radio 1 as Head of Music
Policy from 1997 to 2000.
His achievements at the BBC included founding the
influential Evening Session programme and bringing current Radio 1 breakfast
host Chris Moyles, Jo Whiley, Trevor Nelson, Stuart Maconie and Steve
Lamacq to the BBC.
In the mid-Nineties, Jeff worked in independent production at
Wise Buddah as Director of Programmes.
Radio 2 Publicity
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