He takes over from Tim Corrie, who will continue to serve as deputy chair for another year.

John Willis has been appointed as the new chairman of BAFTA, succeeding Tim Corrie who steps down after his two year tenure.

Corrie will continue to serve as deputy chairman for a further year.

Currently chief executive of Mentorn Media and group creative director of Tinopolis, Willis has been a trustee of BAFTA since 2007, serving as chairman of the Television Committee before becoming deputy chairman last year.

A recipient of four BAFTA nominations and one win (for 1976 TV programme Johnny Go Home), Willis started his career at Yorkshire Television, going on to become director of programmes at Channel 4.

His appointment is effective from today.

“Sir David Lean was the first chairman of the organisation that became BAFTA, and 65 years later it is a daunting responsibility, and indeed a great honour, to step into such giant shoes,” said Willis.

“I look forward to enhancing the amazing cultural and learning work that BAFTA does, as a charity, throughout the UK and in the USA. We have a duty not only to identify and reward excellence but to inspire future generations, so my efforts will be focussed on harnessing the unique body of talent and experience of our membership, in pursuit of our charitable goals,” he added.

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