THE head of a BBC Scotland department has just been appointed the effective No.2 in her specialism at an UK-wide level for the Corporation – adding to claims that BBC Scotland is becoming increasingly influential in network production when previously it seemed marginalised.
BBC Scotland Drama head, Anne Mensah, is to take on the additional role of head of independent drama for the BBC.
Says the BBC: “While remaining head of drama for BBC Scotland, Anne’s additional role will bring together all independent drama output under one cohesive strategy… Anne will lead a much more co-ordinated approach to all development and commissioning for the independent drama community across BBC Wales, Northern Ireland and London indies (England) as well as Scotland.”
Adds BBC Scotland head of Programmes, Donalda Mackinnon: “Recently, Anne has helped bring dramas such as Zig Zag Love, Fiona’s Story and God on Trial to our screens as well as ongoing dramas like River City, Waterloo Road and Wallander – and there is more to follow in the next few months with Hope Springs and P.A.s.
“We’re delighted that our head of Drama here in Scotland will get this additional responsibility within the wider BBC drama family.”
Mensah will report to Ben Stephenson, controller, BBC Drama Commissioning for her additional role.
Meanwhile, BBC Scotland TV and radio presenter, Abeer Parkes, has taken voluntary redundancy, it is believed to go freelance. She joins recent departees Andrew Cassells, Simon Willis, Ruth Davidson, Kit Fraser, John Knox and Heather Fraser.
