Prior, currently head of programming for CBBC, was also the woman behind the structure of the BBC's digital children's channels. She takes over from Pickard on February 17, when he moves across to become director of programmes at ITV, replacing David Liddiment.
In her new role, Prior will take control of the BBC's in-house production, independent commissioning acquisitions, scheduling and specialist services, including the BBC's two digital offerings CBeebies and CBBC Digital.
Prior took over as head of children's production in 1999 from Lorraine Heggessy, who has gone on to become controller of BBC One. In her most recent role, Prior devised the current structure of the two digital channels. Before this, she was business manager to Heggessy.
Prior joined the BBC from college in 1978 working in radio production, progressing to TV production on programmes such as 'The Old Grey Whistle Test'. After that, she worked at BBC Worldwide on the development of BBC America and later as new-media development manager.
In the mid-90, Prior left to freelance, returning to the BBC in 1997 to work with Heggessey.
Pickard's announced his departure from the BBC in October, following Liddiment's decision to quit his job at ITV in the summer.
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