BBC News announced Tuesday that James Harding has been appointed director, BBC News and Current Affairs. Harding begins his new role in August.
From 2007-12, Harding was editor of News Corp.’s The Times. He replaces Helen Boaden, who moves to BBC Radio as director.
In a statement, BBC director general Tony Hall said Harding “will give BBC News a renewed sense of purpose as it moves away from what has been an undeniably difficult chapter.” The network has been plagued by the scandal involving the late Jimmy Savile, a former BBC presenter who is accused of sexual abuse.
“I am delighted that James will be joining as the new Director of BBC News and Current Affairs,” Hall said. “High quality journalism sits right at the heart of the BBC making this is an absolutely critical role.”