New Head for BBC World Service

Peter Horrocks has been appointed as Director of BBC World Service, replacing Nigel Chapman who stood down last year.

Richard Sambrook, Director of BBC Global News, said: "I am delighted that Peter is the new Director of BBC World Service. His experience as a strong editorial leader, coupled with his considerable energy and drive, will be a powerful asset as BBC World Service looks to build on its premier position in the global media landscape."

Peter Horrocks said: "I'm very proud to have been given the chance to lead the world's most exceptional group of journalists and programme makers."

Peter has been Head of the BBC's Multi Media Newsroom since September 2005. He had previously been the BBC's Head of Current Affairs, winning BAFTA awards in 1997 and 2005 for his editorship of Newsnight and for the documentary series The Power Of Nightmares respectively.

He will take up the post in mid-April, following Nigel Chapman stepping down last year.