BBC Studios is establishing a dedicated operations base in Madrid to manage its expanding channels and streaming business across Spain and Portugal, appointing David Urgell Pérez as country manager for Iberia, according to an announcement by the company.
Strategic Leadership Appointments for Iberia
The newly formed Madrid office will house a localized commercial and programming team. According to BBC Studios, David Urgell Pérez will direct commercial strategy across Spain and Portugal following his previous tenure at SkyShowtime and his subsequent work launching an independent consultancy in 2023. Supporting him are Cristina Miquel, who joins as head of marketing to oversee brand development, communications, and audience growth, and Carlos Méndez, who takes on the role of head of programming to direct content strategy in the region.
Did you know? BBC Studios currently operates six FAST channels in Spain—BBC Top Gear, BBC Series, BBC Lifestyle, BBC History, BBC Food, and BBC Earth—alongside its subscription video-on-demand service, BBC Player.
Expanding Distribution and Streaming Footprint
The regional expansion reflects increased demand for British content across Southern Europe. Arran Tindall, BBC Studios president for EMEA, global channels and streaming, stated that Spain represents one of the company’s fastest-growing markets in the region. Tindall noted that the new local team aims to deepen relationships with regional partners and strengthen advertising propositions.
The British public broadcaster’s commercial arm currently reaches Iberian audiences through local platforms including Movistar Plus, Vodafone, Digi, and MasOrange. Additionally, its channels are distributed via connected TV and streaming services such as LG Channels, Pluto TV, Rakuten TV, Samsung TV Plus, TCL Channel, Titan OS, and Xiaomi TV+.
Accelerating Growth in FAST and Streaming Markets
David Urgell Pérez highlighted the existing foundation built through channel portfolios and trusted partnerships in Spain. According to Urgell Pérez, the immediate objective is to accelerate growth across FAST, streaming, and commercial opportunities by capitalizing on the momentum of premium British content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who leads BBC Studios’ new Iberia operation?
David Urgell Pérez serves as the country manager for Iberia, overseeing commercial strategy for global channels and streaming.
Which executives are joining the Madrid team?
Cristina Miquel has been appointed head of marketing, and Carlos Méndez has been named head of programming.
Where can viewers watch BBC Studios channels in Spain and Portugal?
Content is distributed through local providers such as Movistar Plus, Vodafone, Digi, and MasOrange, as well as streaming platforms like Pluto TV, Samsung TV Plus, and Rakuten TV.
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