Emma Tennant becomes new UKTV controller

UKTV has poached ITV executive Emma Tennant and she will become channel controlleat the British thematic channel operator.

Tennant was previously controller of digital channels at the free-to-air commercial broadcaster ITV, where she oversaw channels including ITV2, ITV3 and ITV4.

She will now be in charge of UKTV’s portfolio of ten channels as well as its digital activities. She will sit on the company’s executive leadership team and will report to UKTV CEO Darren Childs and director of vision George Entwhistle.

Darren Childs, UKTV’s CEO, says: “Emma will be instrumental in leading UKTV through the evolution of its next creative challenge and I am delighted she will be joining the team. Her strong commercial success combined with enviable creative, editorial and leadership qualities make Emma the perfect appointment.”

Tennant said: “I have had a wonderful time at ITV and am incredibly proud of the success the digital channels teams have had. However, I am very excited by this new challenge and to be joining UKTV at this pivotal time. The network continues to go from strength to strength as it maximises its enviable mix of BBC content, breakout commissions and third-party acquisitions.”