Dear BPG Member,
There has never been a more exciting time than now to be journalists covering the world of broadcast media. More television than ever before is being made, as streamers compete with traditional outlets. Radio stations are popping up all over the place, as podcasts continue to change the way we consume audio year-on-year. While the government is certain to offer us fireworks as it wrangles over the future of the BBC and Channel 4.
The next two years offer a great opportunity for the Broadcasting Press Guild and its members, and it is why I am so honoured to be elected its chairman at the BPG AGM that took place on July 15th.
I want to pay tribute to Jake Kanter, the outgoing chair of the BPG, who has also stepped down from the executive committee, for his years of service to the guild. I would also like to extend my congratulations to Scott Bryan for his election as vice chairman.
The last 18 months have been a tough one for so many organisations, including the BPG. But we have also had successes, not least of all our first digital awards. The acceptance speeches on social media were viewed 370,000 times, with a whooping 2.75m impressions – thank you for counting Torin Douglas. Particular thanks also to Kate Bulkley and Veronica Newson for going the extra mile organising this year’s awards.
My immediate priorities going forward are to secure a sponsor for a physical awards ceremony in 2022, restart our much-loved lunches, and grow the membership of the guild.
I’m very much looking forward to the task ahead, and can’t wait to see you all (in person!) at a future BPG event.
Please find the minutes of our AGM, kindly compiled by Kate, attached to this email.
All the best,
Grant
Grant Tucker
Chair, BPG
