Jon Petrie, creative director at the BBC, is leaving the corporation after five years to join Hat Trick Productions.
Petrie has overseen the BBC's comedy department, championing shows including Small Prophets, Amandaland, Dreaming Whilst Black, and Such Brave Girls. He will take the title of Creative Director at Hat Trick, the independent production company behind Derry Girls.
His departure reshapes British comedy leadership and leaves a gap in one of the country's most influential comedy commissions. Industry observers are waiting to see who the BBC appoints as his replacement.
Hat Trick has built a reputation for nurturing bold voices in comedy. Petrie's BBC experience and track record in identifying talent will expand the company's comedy portfolio.
The move marks a shift from the stability of a BBC position to the creative autonomy of an independent production house.
