LONDON, Jan 10 (ZIZ): In an official statement from the Secretary of State, Jay Hunt has been named the Chair of the esteemed British Film Institute (BFI), embarking on a four-year tenure commencing from February 16, 2024.
Bringing an illustrious career and a wealth of experience in the entertainment industry, Jay Hunt currently holds the position of Creative Director for Apple TV+ in Europe. Notably, she has been a Governor of the BFI since 2020 and also served on the Board of the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund. Prior to her role at Apple, Hunt held the esteemed position of Chief Creative Officer at Channel 4, overseeing Channel 4, E4, More 4, and the Film 4 channel. Her portfolio boasts a distinctive achievement as the only individual to have helmed three terrestrial broadcast channels, including serving as Controller of BBC One and Director of Programmes at Channel 5.
Hunt’s career highlights encompass an array of globally acclaimed commissions such as “Bad Sisters,” “Slow Horses,” “Luther,” “Sherlock,” “Black Mirror,” “Derry Girls,” “Catastrophe,” and “Gogglebox.” Commencing her career at BBC News, she contributed significantly to programs like Newsnight and Panorama before ascending to the editorship of both the One O’Clock and Six O’Clock News. Her outstanding contributions culminated in being recognized among the Top Twenty Most Powerful Women in Global Entertainment by The Hollywood Reporter in 2023.
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer emphasized the pivotal role of film within the UK’s thriving creative industries and highlighted Hunt’s extensive experience championing British content. Frazer expressed confidence in Hunt’s capability to lead the BFI into a prosperous future.
Expressing her excitement at the prospect of chairing the BFI, Jay Hunt acknowledged the organization’s crucial role in supporting British storytellers. She expressed her passion for the quality and diversity of film and television produced in the UK, aiming to elevate its global prominence.
Ben Roberts, the BFI Chief Executive, expressed immense enthusiasm for Hunt’s appointment, citing her fervent advocacy for the BFI and the UK film sector during her tenure as a Governor. Roberts highlighted Hunt’s unique blend of leadership experience across broadcasting and global streaming platforms, envisioning a dynamic future under her guidance.
Hunt’s appointment adheres to the Cabinet Office’s Governance Code on Public Appointments, and she has not declared any significant political activity within the stipulated period. The BFI anticipates a promising trajectory under Hunt’s leadership, aligning with their commitments outlined in Screen Culture 2033 to enhance program accessibility, screen culture, and job opportunities across the UK.
