
Futrell has been working for the Corporation for 17 years on a freelance basis most recently as head of publicity for the World Service and on a BBC property project.
Futrell takes up her new role on April 15. She will be responsible for the leadership, development and delivery of the World Service's international marketing communications strategies.
Futrell joined the BBC on a short-term contract as an assistant press officer in 1985. Since then, she has been involved in publicity for a wide range of radio and TV programmes, and the marketing of two radio technologies, RDS and DAB.
She also handled the publicity for the BBC's 75th birthday, including the Perfect Day TV promotion.
Futrell said: "My freelance career has enabled me to gain extensive experience in creative and cost-effective marketing, as well as publicity. This post enables me to draw on all those skills while working with international broadcasting's finest experts to promote BBC World Service programme making and initiatives to an international audience of millions."
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