BBC’s first female deputy director-general steps down

Anne Bulford, the BBC’s first deputy director-general, has decided to leave the BBC in the spring of 2019 to pursue a portfolio of non-executive roles.

Director general Tony Hall and the BBC Board thanked Bulford for her work in a statement. The team said she “helped transform the BBC”.

Bulford has been in the role for 13 years. She was responsible for all the finance, HR, legal, risk and technology functions of the BBC.

In addition, she managed strategy, marketing and audience activities, as well as serving on the board of Children in Need.

Hall, said: “Anne has been an inspirational leader. She has brought real insight and determination in bringing change to the BBC. Her achievements at the BBC are many – she has ensured the BBC continues to innovate and deliver hugely popular services to the public. She has vastly improved the BBC’s efficiency to industry leading levels. She has led a transformation in the BBC’s working practices.

“Anne leaves the BBC a stronger organisation than the one she joined six years ago. She has been a first class colleague and an absolute pleasure to work with. I wish her every success for the future.”

Bulford added: “It’s been an honour to be the first woman deputy director-general of the BBC and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved since 2013. The BBC is an amazing organisation, with so many talented people. I feel I’m leaving the BBC in a stronger position and I’d like to thank Tony, my colleagues and especially all my teams for their contribution and hard work.”