BBC Studios Unifies ANZ and Asia Teams Under New Leadership

BBC Studios has announced a strategic merger of its Australia New Zealand (ANZ) and Asia operations into a unified team under the leadership of Robi Stanton. This consolidation aims to streamline operations across both regions, with Stanton stepping into the newly created role of President, APAC Media & Streaming. Previously, Stanton served as Executive Vice President and General Manager in ANZ after joining from CNN International earlier this year.

The restructuring comes as Phil Hardman retains his position as Executive Vice President and General Manager for Asia, though the future of his role has raised questions among industry observers. This move follows BBC Studios’ recent decision to halt production in India, instead entering into a multi-year agreement with Banijay Asia.

Marcus Arthur, CEO of BBC Studios Global Channels, Streaming, and UKTV, expressed confidence in the merger, stating, “Bringing BBC Studios’ media and streaming business in ANZ and Asia together under Robi’s leadership is a strategic step forward. Robi brings clarity, energy, and a sharp commercial lens to the region, and I’m confident this alignment will unlock new opportunities for growth and collaboration across APAC.”

Leadership Experience and Strategic Vision

Prior to her appointment at BBC Studios, Stanton held significant leadership roles at Warner Bros. Discovery and Turner International, managing teams across various functions including content, commercial strategies, marketing, digital initiatives, and operations in both Australia and Singapore. Her extensive background positions her well to navigate the complexities of the media landscape in the Asia-Pacific region.

In the APAC market, BBC Studios is actively involved in producing and distributing local versions of its popular shows. A recent example is the launch of Ghosts: Australia, which debuted earlier this month. This local adaptation underscores the company’s commitment to tailoring content to resonate with regional audiences.

Continued Changes within BBC Studios

The restructuring of the ANZ and Asia teams is part of a broader realignment within BBC Studios. Just a day before this announcement, the company appointed Jamie Hall, former head of Vice Studios UK, as the new Managing Director of scripted content in the UK. This significant role will involve overseeing some of the largest scripted labels in the industry, indicating BBC Studios’ ongoing focus on enhancing its scripted programming portfolio.

As the media industry continues to evolve, the consolidation of resources and expertise within BBC Studios reflects a proactive approach to seize new opportunities in an increasingly competitive landscape. The leadership of Robi Stanton is expected to play a pivotal role in driving growth and fostering collaboration across the APAC region.