New Channel 4 Role for Cosgrove

Stuart Cosgrove, the Glasgow-based senior executive at Channel 4, has been given an enhanced role under restructuring plans announced today.

Director of nations and regions at Channel 4 these last eight years, Cosgrove will now take up the position of director of creative diversity – a team that combines his previous post with indie relations and all the channel’s diversity activities.

Cosgrove will also be responsible for driving the commission of multi-platform content from newer companies throughout the regions.

In a statement issued by Channel 4, he is quoted, saying: “It’s no secret that I am passionate about talent and creativity, whether that is regionally-based companies, digital media or the best small companies in Britain.

“I’m on record as saying that broadcasting can be complacent and in particular has failed creative companies from diverse backgrounds. I will bring my energy to all areas of creative diversity but that will be a priority.”

The announcement comes as the channel unveiled the structure for its new content and commissioning team, following the arrival of new chief executive, David Abraham, earlier this year.

An extra £50 million will be invested in content across 2010, the broadcaster also confirmed.

Adds acting chief creative officer, Julian Bellamy: “Stuart is a formidable creative presence in Channel 4 with a track record in commissioning and senior management.

“He will be a real force for change and is already working on a major set of new announcements, which we will unveil later this year.”