BBC Studios has appointed Martyn Freeman to the position of chief operating officer, Variety reported. He formerly served as their general counsel. 

As general counsel, Freeman oversaw BBC Studio's business and legal affairs, global operations, compliance and risk. His role will now expand to technology, transformation and property as COO. 

"This is a critical role for BBC Studios' future, and I am delighted that Martyn has agreed to take on the additional responsibility," says Tom Fussel, chief executive officer, BBC Studios. "He has overseen BBC Studios' operational response to the pandemic, bringing his trademark calm and focus to a challenging set of circumstances for the business and its staff and ensuring that everyone has had the support they need to do their jobs." 

"This is a significant time for the company, and I am excited to take on the expanded role," says Freeman. "We are driving through plans to realize new digital revenue streams, we have a new CEO at the helm, and we have committed to ambitious goals to increase our returns to the BBC Group for the next five year period. I look forward to playing a key role in our continued success."