To the BBC

Today’s edition of ‘Broadcast’ appears to have pipped me to my own blog exclusive; I’m leaving Virgin Radio after six splendid years, and going to work for the BBC, as Head of Future Media & Technology, Audio & Music, for FM&T. It’s a massive change for me, and a thrill to work with such a great team.

And any company corporation that has blogging guidelines for staff is okay by me.

—update @ 4.55pm—

In case you’re looking for an official statement:

This is the official BBC press release with some embarrassing details of my early career

This is my real quote (I wrote this for Radio Today who were kind enough to ask):

“I’ve had a great time at Virgin Radio, and am hugely proud of what my team has achieved. We’ve pioneered the online radio environment with a bunch of new innovations. It’s a tremendous brand with a great future, and I’m gutted about leaving so many good friends.

“However, I’m thrilled about moving to the BBC: there are some tremendously clever people there, and it will be great to continue working for an organisation recognised as a world-leader.”

This is what my nice current boss is saying:

Paul Jackson, Chief Executive of Virgin Radio, said of James’ departure: “It’s testament to the achievements of Virgin Radio and the strength of the station’s rapid digital media development over the last few years that James Cridland has secured such a prestigious new role at the BBC. We thank him for all his work over the past six years and wish him all the best for the future. We are now looking for an energetic, innovative, new digital radio pioneer to replace him.”