New Executive Producer appointed

Kate Harwood has been appointed as the new Executive Producer for EastEnders by John Yorke, Controller, Continuing Drama Series. Her start date is not yet confirmed but is expected to be within the next two weeks.

Kate is currently an Executive Producer in BBC Drama Serials, reporting to Laura Mackie Head of Drama Series and Serials. In her current role she has been responsible for programmes including Crime And Punishment, Daniel Deronda, The Lost World and Final Demand. Most recently she has been working on the forthcoming BBC drama Elizabeth, The Virgin Queen.

Previously, as a Producer Kate has worked on dramas including The Beggar Bride, Close Relations, The Echo, David Copperfield, Man and Boyand last year's BAFTA winner Charles II - The Power and The Passion.

John Yorke said: 'I am delighted that Kate will be joining the team. She has an excellent reputation across the industry, she understands how to tell stories and how to engage the viewer, it is a real coup for us to have her on board.'

Laura Mackie added: 'Kate is one of the most talented creative forces in the drama community. Her passion for quality underpins everything she works on from costume dramas like Charles II to cutting edge contemporary serials like Holding On. She has consistently uncovered the very best new talent both on and off screen and I know she will relish the challenge and opportunity that EastEnders provides'.

Kate said of her new job: 'I am very excited by the challenge of taking on a show as wonderful as EastEnders. I've been a fan for many years and can't wait to meet the cast and to start working with the production team planning the show's future.'