DfID director of comms James Hardy jumps ship to BBC after just five months

James Hardy joins the BBC in September to take the role of head of comms for journalism, replacing John Shield.

Shield left to join transport group Go-Ahead as director of corporate affairs.

Hardy previously worked at the BBC as a political correspondent for four years. He will report to BBC director of comms Ed Williams.

Hardy said: ‘I have a profound respect for the worldwide reputation and integrity of the BBC's journalism. I look forward to highlighting the unique contribution it makes.’

The news follows the BBC’s appointment of DfID’s previous director of comms Paul Mylrea in April, to head up press and media relations.

Before his time at the BBC, Hardy has worked as political editor for the Press Association, home affairs editor at the Sunday Telegraph and political editor of the Daily Mirror.

Hardy will advise deputy director-general Mark Byford, who is the overall head of BBC journalism, and director of news Helen Boaden, on issues relating to the public reputation of BBC News. 

Hardy took the DfID role in April after being head of news at the department since March 2008.