Audiovisual production company SandStone Global has hired long-time BBC executive Dixi Stewart as managing director, with the goal of growing the company's business across a number of channels.
SandStone Global was founded in 2016 by historian and broadcaster Bettany Hughes, and documentary TV producers Ruth Sessions and Nigel Gardner. The company currently produces a number of podcasts such as maritime archeology show Dive and Dig, in addition to a range of television documentaries.
"We are beyond thrilled that Dixi joins us as our new MD," said Hughes. "SandStone Global has produced landmark factual series, and award-winning films since day one. We are continuing to expand, fast."
Stewart has had a long career in the audio space, including launching Talk Radio UK, and producing flagship Radio 4 programmes including The Food Programme, Woman’s Hour and Saturday Live. In addition, she has also edited podcasts such as Fortunately… with Fi and Jane, and was also heavily involved in the strategic expansion of the BBC Sounds platform.
In addition to her production work, Stewart is a trustee of the Radio Academy and was honoured in 2021 with a Fellowship in recognition of her work directing the Radio Festival and co-founding the Audio and Radio Emergency Fund to support colleagues across the industry throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Dixi and I have worked together for years. I know there is no one better to join Ruth Sessions, [senior producer] Shula Subramaniam, and our wonderful, hyper-talented and dedicated team to expand our beautiful slate of documentary and audio output," Hughes said, "which puts inspiration, internationalism, untold stories and the joy of discovery at its heart."
“It’s the perfect time to expand, grow and bring in new business," added Sessions. "We have over fifty hours of primetime programming under our belt, fantastic new projects underway, more innovative formats in development – there are exciting collaborations ahead with new talent and partnerships. Roll on 2023!”
