UKTV has expanded the remit of Jonathan Newman, who has formally taken on the role of chief commercial officer, alongside his wider responsibilities within BBC Studios.
Newman, previously general manager, commercial at UKTV and BBC Studios UK/Ireland, will now oversee the full scope of UKTV’s commercial activity, including advertising, distribution, content funding and UKTV Ventures. He will also continue to play a role across BBC Studios portfolios, including BBC SER distribution in Ireland, and lead UK routes-to-market strategy in partnership with BBC Studios and BBC Public Service.
The move comes as UKTV strengthens its commercial structure, following Newman’s involvement in securing a recent agreement with Channel 4 to distribute UKTV’s U service on Channel 4 Streaming.
As part of the changes, UKTV has appointed David Swetman to the newly created role of director of content partnerships and sales for the UK and Ireland. Swetman will join on April 7, reporting to Newman, and will lead a newly structured Content Partnerships & Sales team.
He joins from All3Media International, where he has served as SVP of content and commercial strategy, overseeing scripted pipeline development and negotiations with production companies.
In his new role, Swetman will be responsible for UKTV’s content funding strategy and for aligning commercial and editorial priorities across UKTV and BBC Studios. He will also lead key negotiations, shape content investment decisions and develop strategic partnerships across the market.
Jonathan Newman said: “I’m delighted to step into the role of Chief Commercial Officer at a time when UKTV and BBC Studios are deepening their commercial collaboration and sharpening their focus on growth. David’s appointment is a key part of that ambition. His expertise across content investment, funding and distribution will be invaluable as we expand our partnerships and unlock new commercial opportunities.”
David Swetman added: “I’m thrilled to be joining UKTV and BBC Studios at such a pivotal time. The strength of the portfolio, combined with the opportunity to bring together content investment, partnerships and routes to market, creates a compelling platform for growth. I’m looking forward to working with Jonathan and the team to build on this momentum.”
Sam Tewungwa, CEO of UKTV, said: “Jonathan’s appointment as Chief Commercial Officer reflects both his strong track record and the critical role commercial strategy will play in UKTV’s next phase of growth. We’re equally pleased to welcome David, whose deep expertise in content strategy and partnerships will further strengthen our capabilities as we continue to invest in content and expand our reach.”
The appointments come as UKTV and BBC Studios look to accelerate commercial growth and deepen collaboration in an increasingly competitive UK content market.
