Betty has appointed Helen Hawken, VP production and development, factual at Discovery Networks International, as its new director of programmes.
Hawken replaces Duncan Coates, who recently left to join indie 7 Wonder.
Hawken joins Betty at the beginning of March from DNI, where she has been responsible for commissioning shows including Marooned with Ed Stafford, Into the Unknown, Everest Rescue, Robson Green Extreme Fisherman, Dogs: The Untold Story and Rise of the Warrior Apes.
Betty is owned by Discovery, which acquired the indie in 2011. Its shows include The Undateables, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive and Everest Rescue.
Prior to her role at Discovery, Hawken executive produced programmes across all genres including House of Tiny Tearaways and Young, Dumb and Living off Mum for BBC Three and series edited Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother for Channel 4.
Hawken will oversee production at Betty and will work with joint managing directors Neil Smith and Matthew Littleford on new business opportunities.
Neil said: “Helen’s vast breadth and experience of programme making and commissioning – from Big Brother to blue chip natural history – will prove invaluable to betty as a portfolio company. As well as being a talented, well-liked and respected exec, her MA in coaching and mentoring helps further enhance our commitment to staff and freelancer development.”
Staff Reporter
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