Kate Harwood replaces John Yorke at BBC Drama

EastEnders, Doctors and other continuing dramas such as Holby City are to be overseen by Kate Harwood after the departure of the beeb’s controller of drama production John Yorke, who announced he was leaving the corporation in October to join an independent production company.

Harwood is to take on the new role of Head of Drama, England. The newly formed position is part of a simplifying process for BBC Productions’ drama department.

“This is an exciting new era for BBC Drama Production with a team of Drama Editorial Heads leading Pan UK Production across England, Scotland and Wales.

 

“I am also delighted to be taking over from John Yorke in heading up Continuing Drama as I have so many happy memories of my time running EastEnders and I look forward to leading In-House Drama in England into what looks like being a thrilling although challenging future.” – Kate Harwood.

Harwood was previously Executive Producer for EastEnders between 2005 and 2006.

BBC Drama has separate heads in Scotland and Wales with Christopher Aird and Faith Penhale respectively. Harwood will oversee production of dramas based in London and Salford as well as Casualty, which moved from Bristol to Wales last year.