Sara Geater confirmed as Talkback Thames chief executive

The Talkback Thames interim chief executive, Sara Geater, has been confirmed in the role on a permanent basis following Lorraine Heggessey's departure earlier this year . Geater took temporary charge of the Britain's Got Talent and The Apprentice producer in June. She played a key role in the new three-year deal with ITV and Simon Cowell's Syco that will see Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor continue on the broadcaster until 2013. Geater joined the Fremantle Media-owned company as chief operating officer in March 2007. Tony Cohen, Fremantle Media chief executive, said: "Sara has a wealth of knowledge and extensive experience in television on both the production and commercial side of the business. She's done an exceptional job in her interim position as chief executive of Talkback Thames, and I'm delighted that Sara will be taking up this new role." Geater added: "Our new growth strategy will allow us to build on our successes and invest in the future whilst capitalising on Fremantle Media's extensive global network and commercial capabilities." • To contact the MediaGuardian news desk email [email protected] or phone 020 3353 3857. For all other inquiries please call the main Guardian switchboard on 020 3353 2000. • If you are writing a comment for publication, please mark clearly "for publication".