Shennan takes control.

New BBC Radio Two and 6 Music controller appointed

By Ben Cardew and Paul Williams

Leading music and radio industry figures have given a warm welcome to Bob Shennan's appointment as the new controller of Radio Two and 6 Music, despite questions being raised in some quarters over his lack of experience in music radio.

Universal UK chairman and CEO David Joseph calls the move, which was announced last week, "a really strong appointment".

"He has a fantastic track record in radio that's earned a great deal of respect from his colleagues, presenters and other broadcasters," Joseph says. "I feel he and [Radio Two head of music] Jeff Smith will be an excellent team for the music industry."

Radio Academy director Trevor Dann adds, "He has a proven track record as a great talent manager. People who have worked for Bob always like him; he's a popular and effective manager. That's exactly the kind of strength Radio Two needs because Radio Two is nothing without its talent."

Absolute Radio chief operating officer Clive Dickens says he was expecting to see someone with the strength of character of previous controllers Jim Moir and Lesley Douglas to be appointed to the position; among those being touted for the job was former Radio One controller Matthew Bannister. However, he believes Shennan will successfully complement the existing management team at Radio Two.