BBC Radio 5live producer Liam Hanley has been named as the new editor of flagship political programme Question Time by Mentorn Scotland.
Hanley, who grew up in Bolton and lives in Manchester, has worked at 5live for the past 12 years in a number of senior editorial roles. He takes up his new position from December 1st and will be based in Mentorn Scotland’s Glasgow office.
He said: “Question Time is the people’s programme – the programme where the audience gets to set the agenda and hold those in power to account. The chance to lead it through a time of such uncertainty and change, where the questions about what happens next just keep on coming, will be an enormous privilege. I can’t wait to get started.”
He replaces Nicolai Gentchev who after five-and-a-half years as editor, has become Director of Current Affairs for Mentorn Media and is also Executive Producer of Question Time.
Gentchev added: “Question Time is a unique programme. In a time of great change, it has been a privilege to be at the helm and to experience the events of the last few years alongside audiences from around the country. I am looking forward to working with Liam, who has what it takes to be an outstanding Editor and keep making the programme essential viewing in the years to come.”
Gary Smith, BBC Scotland’s Head Of News And Current Affairs, said: “Question Time is the BBC’s flagship debate programme and lets the British public directly hold senior politicians to account and discuss issues with commentators. During a time of momentous political change our audience will continue to be poised with their questions, and Liam will lead the Question Time team brilliantly to ensure that one of our most successful programmes goes from strength to strength.”
In his time at 5 live, Hanley covered the conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan and Ukraine, President Obama’s inauguration and Nelson Mandela’s funeral.
Before that, he spent six years at Radio 4, where he output edited World at One, PM, Broadcasting House and The World This Weekend. He’s also spent time at BBC World Service and Newsround.
Mentorn Scotland is part of Mentorn Media and has produced Question Time since 1998.
