Royal Television Society appoints Sophie Jones as CEO

Jones is currently the Chief Strategy Officer for BPI (the British Recorded Music Industry, previously the British Phonographic Industry), having joined the music trade association, and home of the BRIT Awards and Mercury Prize, in 2020 as Director of Public Affairs. As Chief Strategy Officer, she oversees the public affairs, communications, music exports, member services, and innovation departments, as well as insights.

Prior to joining the BPI, Jones was Head of Corporate Relations at Channel 4, where she worked on major public affairs and communications campaigns and was closely involved with the broadcaster’s ‘4 All the UK’ regional strategy, as well as working on inclusion and diversity. She has also held similar senior roles at ITV and ITN. 

Jones will begin the role later in 2026, after her predecessor Theresa Wise has stepped away. The incoming CEO will work closely with the RTS’s Board of Trustees, overseeing the society’s extensive educational activities, awards, conventions, national and regional centres and membership community.

Jane Turton, Chair of the RTS Board of Trustees, said: “I am delighted to welcome Sophie as the Royal Television Society’s new CEO. Sophie’s deep experience of production and broadcasting will be a valuable asset to the RTS as we continue to grow the society, adapting to the demands of a very fast-changing media world. Sophie is passionate about the educational aspects of the society and the opportunities we have to support the sector in bringing in and developing career opportunities for the broadest base of talent. The trustees and I very much look forward to working with her as we continue to champion excellence and support new talent, ensuring that the society remains a vibrant and inclusive home for the whole industry.”

Jones added: “Throughout my career in television, I have worked closely with and experienced the value of the society’s vital work – from career development and invaluable insights, to championing the UK’s nations and regions and celebrating the art and science of television in its world-class awards. To be asked to lead this wonderful institution into its next phase, at a time of such pivotal change, is a huge privilege that I take on with both enormous respect and excitement. Theresa leaves an impressive legacy that I look forward to building on with the support of the RTS’s brilliant team, board, and network of volunteers around the UK. I can’t wait to get started”.

At the RTS Programme Awards 2026, Netflix’s Adolescence won four awards – Limited Series, Single Drama, and Writer of Drama. Owen Cooper also won both the Breakthrough Award and Supporting Actor – Male categories. Discover more here.