Senior management reshuffle announced at SMG

SMG Television, owners of ITV franchises Scottish Television and Grampian Television, are set to expand their collaboration with international programme producers with the appointment of Sandy Ross (currently Managing Director of Scottish Television) as Managing Director of International Development.
The appointment of Ross, a highly-regarded and experienced television executive, to the post signals SMG's determination to capitalise on their existing relationships with foreign programme-producers, build new links with others and seek out new programme formats that it can take to UK networks.
Donald Emslie, Chief Executive of SMG Television, said: "Scottish Television has a strong international reputation with programmes such as 'Taggart', 'Rebus' and 'McCallum' playing on networks around the world.
"Through shows like 'Wheel of Fortune', which we made for the ITV network for many years, we have the credentials to open doors for us with format-owners worldwide. Sandy has unique experience in this area and I'm confident that with him at the helm we can make real progress in this area."
Ross said: "This is an exciting new challenge. I'm looking forward to going back into the network television world and working with overseas partners to bring more Scottish programmes to the networks in the UK and sell Scottish production abroad. Looking after the Scottish Television licence has been a privilege and during my time we have made better programmes and won more awards than ever before, but this is the right time to move on to new challenges."
As a result of the move, the company has appointed Bobby Hain (currently Business Development Director, SMG Radio) as Managing Director of Scottish Television.
Hain, who joined SMG in 2000 after a career in the radio sector as a presenter, programme director and station chief, will take responsibility for all of Scottish Television 's operations, reporting to Donald Emslie.
Commenting on Hain's appointment, Emslie said: "The whole television industry faces an exciting and demanding future and Scottish Television is no different. I'm certain that Bobby will bring with him a new perspective on this business and one that will ensure Scottish Television will continue to thrive in the future."
Hain added: "For anyone who grew up in Scotland watching Scottish Television, this has to be the dream job. Television faces many interesting challenges in the coming months and I'm looking forward to building on Scottish Television 's success."
(GB)