Uecker to exit ABC Children’s

Barbara Uecker is leaving Australian public broadcaster the ABC.

Uecker, who is head of programming and acquisitions for ABC TV Children’s, is exiting on March 28 to “pursue other opportunities”, according to the broadcaster.

She has been with the ABC since 2008, during which time she is credited with building the ABC3 and ABC4 Kids channels and launching series such as Nowhere Boys and Dance Academy, and also executive produced the reboot of Bananas in Pyjamas.

Last year, she held the role of acting controller, children’s TV at the ABC after Tim Brooke-Hunt’s departure.

“Barbara has made a significant contribution to both the ABC and Australian families who trust and rely on our children’s services. We wish her all the best for her next exciting role within the international children’s sector,” said the ABC’s head of children’s TV Deirdre Brennan.

Uecker is also credited as a key player in the establishment of German kids channel KiKA and previously worked for ARD affiliate Sender Freies Berlin before becoming head of family, education and nature TV programmes for Hessischer Rundfunk.