Broadcaster June Sarpong is to step down from her role as director of creative diversity at the BBC.
Sarpong was hired to the role in October 2019 with the remit to improve diversity among on-air talent and commissioning teams. Her departure date has not yet been confirmed, but Press Gazette understands she is likely to leave the BBC this year. The corporation is currently advertising for a new diversity and inclusion chief.
A BBC spokesperson told Press Gazette: “As the BBC’s director of creative diversity June Sarpong is continuing to deliver on her commitments to ensure audiences across the UK, from all backgrounds and communities, can feel that the BBC is for them.”
Sarpong had been on a two-year contract commencing in November 2019, and signed an ongoing contract in November 2021. News of the departure comes the same day Variety reported women of colour were leaving the BBC in disproportionate numbers, and a month after The Times revealed that de facto deputy head of diversity Miranda Wayland was leaving the broadcaster.
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog
