Melanie Rumani, the global head of acquisitions for BBC Studios and UKTV, has died after a long battle with cancer, it was announced on Tuesday. She was 50.
Rumani first joined BBC Studios in 2006 and held various positions in sales and acquisitions before being promoted in 2020 to global head of acquisitions for both BBC Studios and UKTV.
“Mel’s contribution to BBC Studios and the wider BBC Group cannot be underestimated, and it was a privilege to work with her,” Tom Fussell, CEO of BBC Studios, said in a statement. “She was fearless and tenacious in her approach to deal-making, and this translated into how she approached everyday life too. We are all in total admiration of how she tackled her illness and her determination to continue working despite the challenges that presented. Mel is going to be hugely missed by all those who had the pleasure of working with her and our thoughts are with Mel’s husband Hass and her wider family and friends.”
Before also taking on UKTV, at BBC Studios Rumani sourced content for 40 pay TV channels and SVOD BBC-branded services around the world. She was instrumental in launching new channels, including BBC Earth, BBC Brit and BBC First, across multiple territories. After taking on the newly created dual role as global head of acquisitions for BBC Studios and UKTV, Rumani was responsible for forging a raft of global deals with many different studios. “Melanie worked with hundreds of people across the BBC Group and she touched the lives of many,” a press release announcing her death reads. “She will be hugely missed.”
Added UKTV CEO Marcus Arthur, “Mel had incredible resilience, and she brought a fast-paced energy and determination to everything she tackled. Her wealth of knowledge was incredible, and she was highly regarded in the industry for her expertise and professionalism. Mel was also funny, kind and passionate. She was an inspiration to all of us and our thoughts are with Mel’s husband and our much-loved colleague Hass, at this terribly sad time.”
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