Piers Wenger has been hired as BBC’s new drama chief where he will be charged with commissioning the next generation of content to come from the broadcaster.

Piers Wenger

The former Doctor Who executive producer will follow on from Polly Hill who joined ITV from the Beeb earlier this year.

Wenger will join from Channel 4 where his recent successes include Humans – which was accompanied with an intriguing ad campaign that duped the public.

The Guardian reports that last year the BBC commissioned 450 hours of drama, and Wenger will be overlooking a similar output.

On taking up the new role (in Autumn), Wenger said: I have had an unforgettable and brilliant time at Channel 4 and it is with real sadness that I am saying goodbye.

“But the scope and scale of BBC drama make this an irresistible challenge and I could not be more excited about joining the talented team there and for the new relationships and creative adventures which lie ahead of me at the BBC.”

Charlotte Moore, BBC controller of TV channels and iPlayer, added: “Piers is a brilliant creative leader with great taste and a passion for writing. He has a breadth of experience and knowledge of the global industry, as well as a real understanding of audiences.”

Wenger’s career began in journalism. After leaving it behind early on, he oversaw Doctor Who for the BBC during the Matt Smith years. For Channel 4 he produced This is England 90, Humans and Indian Summers.