BBC alum Claire Urquhart joins S4C in Wales to lead new commercial content fund

Claire Urquhart

Welsh-language broadcaster S4C has hired former BBC exec Claire Urquhart to head up a new commercial content fund.

The fund, which will fall under S4C International’s commercial operations, will support drama, premium factual and children’s content with an aim to seek out creative partnerships “that take bigger and bolder Welsh content” to the world.

Urquhart has worked in development and production for two decades, most recently establishing Silver Strand to create commercial content for the international market.

She previously held format and feature development roles at the BBC, creating returnable brands, formats, brand-funded shows and series.

“I know the challenges producers face in getting big ideas over the line but I also know the rewards are huge,” she said. “I can’t wait to see the brilliant projects that emerge from this fund. I’m also looking forward to meeting the production community in Wales and working closely with them.”

Urquhart will be working alongside the S4C commercial team, including CFO Sharon Winogorski and COO, Elin Morris.

She will also work closely with the S4C commissioning arm led by chief content officer, Llinos Griffin-Williams, and overseen by S4C chief executive, Sian Doyle.