BSkyB has appointed Sophie Turner Laing, the BBC's controller of acquisitions, to head the UK satellite broadcaster's film and acquisitions activities.

Turner Laing, who secured Band Of Brothers and 24 for the BBC, effectively replaces Paul Taylor as director of film channels and acquisitions. Taylor is leaving the company after five years.

The move marks one of the first key appointments of Sky Networks managing director Dawn Airey, to whom Turner Laing will report.

"I am thrilled to welcome someone of Sophie's talents to Sky," said Airey. "She has an enviable track record for timely and imaginative acquisitions and a very strong commercial reputation. She will thrive in the growing multi-channel environment."

Other Turner Laing acquisitions at the BBC include Buffy, Titanic and the pre-buy of Chicken Run. She also oversaw the renewal of output deals with Dreamworks and New Regency.