For the past two years, BBC veteran Anne Morrison has acted as deputy chair for the British Academy of Film and Television Arts. On Wednesday, it was announced that she would be switching places with John Willis to succeed him as the new chair, according to media reports.
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As part of the announcement, it was revealed that Willis will take over the deputy chair role vacated by Morrison for the next year.
Morrison becomes the second woman to head up BAFTA in the history of the organization, after Hilary Bevan Jones who took on the chair role in 2006. It is a two-year position.
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“I am delighted and deeply honored to become chair of BAFTA,” Morrison said of her new role. “Over the next two years I want to build on everything BAFTA has already achieved, from the prestigious awards to the amazing year-round learning program that supports, nurtures and develops new talent.”
She has been involved with BAFTA for six years, taking on multiple roles. She has acted as a member of the Board of Trustees and the Television Committee, and acted as chair of the Learning & Events Committee.
Morrison’s career began as a producer/director at BBC, before advancing to controller. Her production team handled the Queen’s golden jubilee, as well as launching several successful reality franchises. Later, she oversaw the growth of BBC network television from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland as program director of the BBC’s network supply review.
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“I look forward to sharing my passion for offering opportunities to talented young people, regardless of their background, and inspiring them to progress further in their careers,” Morrison said. “BAFTA has something for everyone, from young game designers to world-leading practitioners.”