MUMBAI:BBC World Service's new chief operating officer and financial director Alison Woodhams has been appointed.

She takes up her post in January 2005. She will be responsible for the BBC World Service's finances, property and all business development activities.

BBC World Service director Nigel Chapman said: "Alison brings considerable experience at the highest level in financial matters."

"She will bring substantial skill and enthusiasm to the major challenges we face in the years ahead." he explains in a company release.

Woodhams has been the BBC's Group Financial Controller since 2001. Since July 2004 she has been the acting finance director of the BBC responsible for managing all the finances of the Corporation.

Alison Woodhams said,"I look forward to helping ensure that BBC World Service continues to maintain the ability to respond quickly to audiences' changing needs and its commitment to serving them better."

Alison has been with the BBC since 1995, beginning as Head of Finance for the BBC's English Regional Services. She became Head of Internal Audit across the whole of the BBC in 1998, informs the media release.