The Royal Television Society, Britain’s leading forum for television and related media, has announced that ITN CEO John Hardie has been appointed Chair of the Royal Television Society, with Freesat Managing Director Emma Scott as Vice Chair. Hardie and Scott take over from Carolyn Fairbairn and Wayne Garvie whose terms of office have come to an end.

Chair and Vice Chair are the lead roles on the RTS Executive Committee, which supervises the day to day management of the Society. Hardie and Scott will join the RTS Board of Trustees and will also lead the RTS Advisory Council.

Hardie said: “Amidst the changing creative, regulatory and commercial environments, the RTS remains a force to be reckoned with. Its debates are still the most stimulating, its workshops still the most productive and its awards still the most coveted. I am thrilled to be taking up this position at such a crucial moment and intend to continue the good work the Society does on behalf of all of its members.”

Scott added: “Because the RTS plays such an important role in broadcasting, it is vital that it continues to recognise and embrace the fundamental changes we are currently facing. I am honoured to have been appointed Vice Chair of the RTS and I am really looking forward to playing a positive and strategic role to help guide the RTS forward.” 

Mike Darcey, Chair of the RTS Trustees, said: “John and Emma have been great supporters of the RTS and the Trustees are delighted they have accepted their new roles. Both will add considerable expertise and insight to the Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees.”