UKTV has appointed Sam Tewungwa as chief executive officer, with effect from 1 April 2026.
Tewungwa, currently managing director of the BBC Studios-owned business, will take charge of the company’s overall strategy and performance as it looks to build further growth across its channel portfolio and free streaming platform U.
He will report to Marcus Arthur, whose remit has expanded to cover all BBC Studios global channels and streaming services outside the United States.
Arthur said Tewungwa combined strong commercial instincts with strategic clarity and a detailed understanding of the UKTV business.
“Sam has a deep understanding of UKTV’s business. His commercial instinct, strategic clarity and ability to bring teams together consistently drive results,” he said. “This is absolutely the right leadership decision for the next phase of UKTV’s growth.”
Tewungwa said he was optimistic about the future of the sector despite wider market challenges.
“I’m honoured to be taking on the role of UKTV’s next CEO,” he said. “We have an exceptional team, much-loved brands, and a culture that is the envy of many across the sector.”
Tewungwa joined BBC Studios in 2013 as commercial director for TV sales before moving into a wider commercial role. He later played a key part in BBC Studios’ acquisition of UKTV following the demerger of its joint venture with Discovery.
He joined the UKTV board as chief commercial officer in 2019 and was promoted to managing director in 2023.
During his time at UKTV, Tewungwa has overseen key distribution and partnership agreements, including carriage deals for U with Channel 4, Sky and Virgin, while also leading major advertising sales renegotiations and the company’s wider digital transformation.
