Melanie Rumani, BBC Studios and UKTV Global Head of Acquisitions, passes away

Rumani joined BBC Studios in 2006, holding various positions within sales and acquisitions until her most recent role as Global Head of Acquisitions for BBC Studios and UKTV.

17 JUN 2025
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Melanie Rumani

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Melanie Rumani has passed away after a long battle with cancer. Rumani joined BBC Studios in 2006, holding various positions within sales and acquisitions until her most recent role as Global Head of Acquisitions for BBC Studios and UKTV.

Tom Fussell, CEO BBC Studios, said: “Mel’s contribution to BBC Studios and the wider BBC Group cannot be underestimated, and it was a privilege to work with her. She was fearless and tenacious in her approach to deal-making, and this translated into how she approached everyday life too. We are all in total admiration of how she tackled her illness and her determination to continue working despite the challenges that presented. Mel is going to be hugely missed by all those who had the pleasure of working with her and our thoughts are with Mel’s husband Hass and her wider family and friends.”

Marcus Arthur, CEO, UKTV, added: “Mel had incredible resilience, and she brought a fast-paced energy and determination to everything she tackled. Her wealth of knowledge was incredible, and she was highly regarded in the industry for her expertise and professionalism. Mel was also funny, kind and passionate. She was an inspiration to all of us and our thoughts are with Mel’s husband and our much-loved colleague Hass, at this terribly sad time.”

Rumani joined BBC Studios 19 years ago, and her contribution to the business has been immense. Prior to taking on her UKTV remit, Melanie sourced content for 40 individual pay TV channels and SVOD BBC-branded services globally. She helped launch new channels across multiple territories, including BBC Earth, BBC Brit, and BBC First. In 2020, Melanie assumed the newly created role of Global Head of Acquisitions, overseeing BBC Studios and UKTV, and securing a range of global deals with various studios. Melanie worked with hundreds of people across the BBC Group, and she touched the lives of many. She will be hugely missed.