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Betts was previously managing director at NBC Universal Global Channels in the UK and Northern Europe

In his newly created role, Betts will be responsible for all business development activity in BBC Vision including leadership of the commercial agency.

He will also be responsible for growing external investment and developing new business models. He will report to Bal Samra, director of vision operation and rights.

During Betts's tenure at NBC Universal, the sci-fi channel grew its audience by more than 50% in the UK and the company announced two new channel launches in the Benelux region.

Prior to this, he was commercial director at UKTV, which he joined in 1999. He helped the channel's portfolio grow from four to ten channels. Other previous jobs include head of UK and Ireland Television for BBC Worldwide.

Samra said: "Nick absolutely understands how the BBC balances its public service needs with driving more inward commercial investment. He will bring real innovation to this new role."

Betts said: "As the BBC seeks to increase its commercial funding following the recent licence fee settlement, I'm looking forward to working across the corporation to drive commercial strategy, maximise income from existing commercial sources and develop new revenue streams, particularly from its New Media activities."