The BBC is launching a significant internal overhaul, creating two new high-ranking positions dedicated to investigating misconduct and protecting whistleblowers. This move comes after a period of intense public and regulatory scrutiny over the corporation's handling of several major scandals.
A New Framework for Accountability
The broadcaster is actively recruiting for a Head of Corporate Investigations & Whistleblowing and a supporting director. These roles, which command a combined annual salary potential of £240,000, represent a substantial investment in the BBC's internal governance. Announced on Monday 5 January 2026, the restructure of the Corporate Investigations team aims to foster a stronger culture of transparency.
The core mandate for these new positions will be to oversee probes into the most serious allegations. This includes serious criminal behaviour, sexual offences, harassment, and other high-risk cases. The BBC states the initiative is designed to ensure thorough investigations that meet all legal and regulatory obligations, thereby rebuilding trust.
Catalysed by High-Profile Controversies
This strategic shift follows a tumultuous period for the national broadcaster. It has faced fierce criticism for its management of cases involving some of its biggest stars. Most notably, these include the scandal surrounding veteran news presenter Huw Edwards and allegations concerning former MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace.
The controversy has not been confined to news and factual programming. The hugely popular entertainment show Strictly Come Dancing has also been at the centre of a storm, with allegations of bullying behind the scenes. This led to the departure of two of its professional dancers, Giovanni Pernice and Graziano Di Prima, casting a long shadow over the programme.
Investing in a Culture of Safety
By establishing these dedicated, senior roles, the BBC leadership is signalling a clear intent to change how wrongdoing is reported and addressed internally. The creation of a specific "head of whistleblowing" function is intended to provide a safer, more structured channel for staff to raise concerns without fear of reprisal.
The restructure is a direct response to the fallout from the recent scandals, which damaged the corporation's reputation and raised questions about its internal safeguards. The BBC now hopes that this £240,000 investment in its investigative and whistleblowing framework will mark a turning point, demonstrating a renewed commitment to accountability at the highest level.
