BBC News has announced a new way of working internationally to enhance opportunities for audience growth around the world and to simplify the organisation's structure. Later this year, six regional directors will be appointed to lead six regions across the world both editorially and operationally.
BBC News says that this will group the world into six distinct areas and the regional directors will be tasked with growing audiences in their region and providing clear reporting lines for each of the BBC World Service's 42 language services.
These changes will strengthen BBC News's ability to serve audiences with independent and impartial news, counter disinformation and deliver its editorial priorities, with accountability and clarity at the centre of the plan, says BBC News.
Outside the UK, the six regional directors will make the most of regional expertise and have a regional headquarters. According to BBC News, the regions are:
- Africa
- the Americas
- Asia Pacific
- Central and South Asia
- Europe, and
- the Middle East and North Africa.
Enhancing regional leadership will mean more devolved responsibilities from London and the oversight of regional spending, governance and culture. To fund these positions, leadership roles in London will close, adds BBC.
BBC News says it remains the most trusted news provider in an increasingly polarised world where its services are being outspent by billions in the form of state-backed media. The new model of working will ensure the BBC's global operation is fit to face its future challenges.
Jonathan Munro, Global Director and Deputy CEO of BBC News, says, "BBC News' international output and the BBC World Service have never been more needed as the fight against disinformation intensifies and press freedom is increasingly under threat globally. The BBC's trusted journalism has to go further, to reach more of those who need it most and to provide an alternative for those who want impartial coverage."
"These plans put audiences first, supercharging our ability for growth to reach more people with independent news and to put the BBC's global operations in the best position to succeed in our mission," concludes Munro.
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