New top boss for BBC in the North West
AZIZ Rashid is to be the new head of regional and local programmes for the BBC in the North West.
The Bradford-born executive, who has worked for the corporation for 20 years, will take up his new post early next month. He is currently head of the East Midlands region. He replaces Tamsin O’Brien, who left the BBC at the end of last year.
His impressive CV includes a stint as deputy editor of BBC Breakfast, where he oversaw coverage of events such as the War in Iraq and the Queen Mother’s Funeral.
In 2004 he became weekend editor – in charge of BBC TV News programmes including the Sunday Ten O’Clock News.
In his new post, Aziz, 42, will be responsible for the regional and local output from the BBC in the North West including BBC Radio Merseyside, BBC Radio Manchester, BBC Radio Lancashire, North West Tonight, Inside Out, The Politics Show and the local websites.
Aziz says: “I am really thrilled to be taking over the reins of BBC North West. We have three of the most listened to BBC local radio stations in England, our websites have nearly two million weekly unique users and our regional TV programmes are seen by nearly half the people of the North West every week.
“There’s a big challenge to make sure our audiences are fully across Digital Switchover in November and we have an exciting future ahead with our move to Salford Quays in 2011.”
David Holdsworth, Controller of BBC English Regions, says: “Aziz’s track record is formidable. He’s a warm and inspirational leader who will bring great creativity to the role.”
