BBC’s Sam Bailey to run Audio Content Fund

Sam Bailey, a Commissioning Executive for BBC Radio 1, has been appointed as Managing Director of the Audio Content Fund, funded by the UK Government.

The Fund will award grants to independent production companies to make public service content for commercial radio, opening in April 2019.

Sam has worked at the BBC for 14 years, and most recently led Radio 1 Vintage for the station’s 50th anniversary. As a commissioner, he has been responsible for documentary content and ran Radio 1’s iPlayer TV channel and previously led the BBC’s digital coverage of Glastonbury.

Sam Bailey, who is also a trustee of the Radio Academy, will start in the new role on 1st April 2019 upon leaving the BBC.

Appointments are currently being finalised for the specialist Funding Panel which will assess bids and more information for those wishing to bid for funding will be made public shortly.

Content can be made for broadcast to all audiences and the eight assessment criteria include out-of-London, diversity, and new voices.

Sam Bailey said: “I’m thrilled to be appointed as Managing Director of the Audio Content Fund. The UK indie sector is bursting at the seams with talent and incredible ideas – and the opportunities within commercial radio and elsewhere seem boundless. I can’t wait to get started.”

Will Jackson, a Director of the Audio Content Fund, said: “We’re really pleased that Sam has agreed to be the Managing Director of the Fund. His experience and understanding of content commissioning and radio platforms will be invaluable and we really look forward to working with him.”

Siobhan Kenny, a Director of the Audio Content Fund, said: “The Audio Content Fund is a great initiative with the potential to broaden the range of public service content on commercial radio. Sam’s appointment is a crucial step in making this happen. We are delighted to have him on board.”