Simon Lopez (lead image) has joined BBC Studios Australia and New Zealand as head of strategy, in a newly created role for the business’ global distribution arm. Lopez will shape BBC Studios strategy for growth in ANZ, help define how investment is allocated across the portfolio, and support negotiations with key customers.
Lopez joins BBC Studios ANZ from BAI Communications – a global telecommunications provider – where he led strategy and insight across Europe, based in London. Prior to BAI, Lopez cut his teeth in the media industry at Hoyts Group as head of corporate finance and reporting. Lopez holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Commerce from the University of New South Wales and the University of Sydney respectively.
Lopez will report to Dorota Tomas, who leads BBC Studios global markets strategy and research from Poland, and to Fiona Lang, general manager of BBC Studios ANZ, in the Sydney office.
Fiona Lang said: “Highly analytical and charismatic, with sharp commercial acumen and extensive experience across media and technology, Simon was a shoo-in for this new and vital role. We can’t wait to see what Simon brings to the table, and we’re thrilled he’s joining the ANZ team.”
Lopez said: “I’m excited to join an incredibly strong ANZ team at what is a very interesting time for BBC Studios and the industry as a whole. I look forward to evolving our vision and executing our future-facing strategy for ANZ, and to deepening our major partnerships. Adding a locally-based strategy function for ANZ is a clear demonstration of BBC Studios ‘ long term commitment to growth in this key market, and I’m excited for the future of our operation here.”
