The BBC’s director general, Tony Hall, is set to announce a management reshuffle at the corporation as he looks to cut costs and prepare for a new governance structure.
The timing of Wednesday morning’s announcement – in which Hall is expected to award a big job to head of strategy James Purnell, as well confirm senior roles for head of television Charlotte Moore and director of news James Harding – is likely to raise eyebrows as it will be made on the same day as the long-awaited Chilcot report.
BBC insiders described the reorganisation as “sensible and practical” given the need for cost savings after last year’s financial settlement with the government.
Wednesday’s announcement is expected to focus on new reporting lines with a stronger emphasis on education.
Purnell, who led the corporation’s charter renewal talks in which the BBC was felt to have headed off the government’s more radical proposals, is expected to be given greater responsibility for education as part of the overhaul.
Helen Boaden is expected to remain head of radio.
