Channel 4 poaches Shennan for radio task

Channel 4 has poached Bob Shennan, the controller of BBC Radio Five, to head the launch of its three new digital stations. He will take over the director of radio job from Nathalie Schwarz, who has been promoted to the Channel 4 board as new business and corporate development director.

Shennan will be responsible for the launch of E4 Radio, which is due to launch in July, Channel 4 Radio and Pure4. He will oversee the programming and performance of the stations and will work closely with Schwarz and Channel 4 director of TV and content, Kevin Lygo.

As well as her new division, Schwarz will also be responsible for new investment and business opportunities across all platforms and will continue to be involved in the development of the broadcaster’s radio interests. She takes over the role from Ron Henwood, who announced he was stepping down last week.

Shennan was appointed as controller of Five Live in August 2000. During his tenure, the station has reached a record audience of just under 7 million listeners and he oversaw the launch of sister network, Five Live Sports. He also took over managing the BBC Asian Network in 2004.