BBC Studios channels change: Tim Christlieb returns to UK, Chrissie Carras new head of branded services

Chrissie Carras as head of branded services has been appointed as BBC Studios ANZ.

Carras will oversee programming, presentation, media planning, advertising and brand partnerships, and will also be responsible for the branded services marketing team.

Her appointment comes after Tim Christlieb leaves Australia and return to work for BBC Studios in the UK.

Fiona Lang, general manager BBC Studios ANZ, said: "I’m delighted that Chrissie will step-up to lead our branded services division as we say a fond farewell to Tim and wish him all the best.

"In Chrissie we have someone with an unparalleled knowledge and passion for the best British tv content and an astute understanding of what works for our audiences, advertisers and platform partners.

"She has been an integral part of  BBC Studios team for over 10 years and is perfectly placed to lead our enhanced team to make the most of opportunities as the business evolves," she added.

Carras said of her appointment: "I'm excited to get started in this new role. The BBC is a brand that resonates around the world as producing and broadcasting the best of British television and I look forward to continuing to drive our local network of channels, on-demand offerings, brand propositions and advertising and sponsorship opportunities in a rapidly changing environment."

She joined BBC Studios in 2010 and has held various roles in Branded Services working across marketing, programming, presentation and advertising sales, most recently as head of programming and advertising sales. 

Carras has been responsible for the launch of BBC Earth in Australia and New Zealand; BBC Brit, BBC Living and BBC Kids on Fetch and CBeebies on Sky TV in New Zealand, together with various pop-up channels.

The new structure will see Calum Hemphill promoted to head of network planning and lead a new unit responsible for all network media inventory including advertising and brand partnership opportunities.

Hemphill will report to Carras, and she will continue to work closely with Lottie Wilson, head of acquisitions.

Both Carras and Wilson become part of Lang’s senior leadership team. 

Additional changes also see Kate O’Connor promoted to head of licensing and brands, overseeing all aspects of brand expansion for Bluey and other BBC Studios IP including BBC Earth, Doctor Who and Top Gear in the territory.