BBC Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Peter O’Kane is to step down later this year.
O’Kane’s departure comes after more than 15 years at the BBC. He took over as interim Chief Technology & Product Officer in 2020, before becoming CTO permanently in 2021. Before this this he was Director of Infrastructure Services, Operations and Commercial.
.jpg)
The Technology Group also includes BBC Research and Development and the team that secured the BBC’s archive for future use.
Writing on LinkedIn, O’Kane announced his departure to BBC staff. “This wasn’t an easy decision — working with you has been one of the most rewarding and inspiring parts of my career. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together: from modernising our technology landscape and embracing the cloud, to keeping the BBC on-air and online through some of the most challenging moments in recent history.
“Together, we’ve delivered major projects, supported colleagues and audiences (including through the Covid pandemic), and built a resilient, forward-looking Technology and Media Operations group. We’ve transformed how we work — bringing together a more unified, collaborative, and capable team that reflects the diversity, creativity, and commitment of the BBC itself. That team now includes apprentices, specialists, and leaders across the UK — and it continues to grow in strength and confidence.”
O’Kane said he will be staying on for a while to complete a key project focused on technology resilience, and to support a smooth transition.
Oscars to livestream exclusively on YouTube in 2029
YouTube has secured exclusive global rights to the Oscars – including red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes content, Governors Ball access, and more – from 2029 to 2033.
BBC Charter Review seeking input on generating more commercial revenue
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has launched a review of the BBC’s Royal Charter, with priorities aimed at bolstering trust in the broadcaster and increasing financial sustainability.
Netflix leadership lays out case for Warner Bros Discovery deal
Netflix Co-CEOs Greg Peters and Ted Sarandos have stressed their belief that the streamer’s planned $83bn acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery will go ahead, despite a hostile bid from Paramount Skydance.
UK facilities Halo Post and Evolutions placed into administration
Just months after being acquired by leading UK post-production company Envy, post houses Halo Post Production and Evolutions have been placed into administration.
UK government names Creative Industries Council members
The UK government has named the new members of its Creative Industries Council (CIC), its strategic forum for collaboration with industry leaders.
