Gary Smith appointed BBC Scotland’s Head Of News And Current Affairs
One of broadcasting’s most experienced news journalists, Gary Smith, has been appointed Head of News and Current Affairs for BBC Scotland.
Published: 26 October 2015
I’ve a passion and commitment for providing accurate, clear, informative, honest journalism with integrity and impartiality, and after 30 years in broadcast journalism, this is the job I’ve always wanted.
A graduate in English from Glasgow University who then studied journalism at Cardiff University, Gary has an extensive background of senior leadership experience throughout the broadcasting sector, including the BBC.
In his current job as UK News Editor for BBC News, Gary runs the home newsgathering team across the UK. His previous roles in the BBC include Editor, Political News, and Assistant Editor on the then Nine O'Clock News. He also worked as a programme editor and senior political producer at Channel Four News.
“I’ve a passion and commitment for providing accurate, clear, informative, honest journalism with integrity and impartiality, and after 30 years in broadcast journalism, this is the job I’ve always wanted,” said Gary.
He worked on the ground on many of the major stories of the Eighties and Nineties, including the fall of Mrs Thatcher and the end of the Berlin Wall, the Dunblane shootings, and the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. Since the turn of the century, he has led teams on stories ranging from the Pope's visit to the UK, the hunt for Raoul Moat, and the Scottish Independence Referendum last year.
“The story of Scotland in a devolved UK is one of the most important themes of this decade. Reporting and analysing this with insight, accuracy and impartiality for audiences both in Scotland and the rest of the UK is one of the biggest challenges faced by the BBC now and in the coming years,” he added.
BBC Scotland Director, Ken MacQuarrie, welcomed the appointment:
“We had a top-class field to choose from, but Gary’s vision and ambition for where he wants to take BBC Scotland News in future was crystal clear. I’m delighted he’s heading back to Scotland and I know he’ll be a valued colleague."
Deputy Director of News and Current Affairs, Fran Unsworth, said Gary will be an excellent addition to the BBC Scotland newsroom:
"We have a terrific team in Scotland who already provide us with great coverage and analysis. Gary's experience will add to their ability to bring news of Scottish events and the increased political significance into even sharper focus for our audiences," she said.
Gary is expected to take up his new role in the new year.
RT
