Martin Geissler is joining the presenting team of BBC Radio Scotland’s news and current affairs show Drivetime, following the departure of John Beattie who retired from the programme last month.
He’s already a familiar voice to the Radio Scotland audience having been part of the Good Morning Scotland team for the past few years.
Martin will join Fiona Stalker in the presenting line-up.
Fiona will continue to present on Thursdays and Fridays, with Martin on air Monday to Wednesday.
Gary Smith, Head of News and Current Affairs, BBC Scotland, said:
“Martin is a hugely experienced journalist who brings many years of reporting and presenting, both on radio and television, to this role.
“He has an in-depth knowledge of the news agenda and an impressive track record on news-making interviews.
“Martin and Fiona are outstanding journalists who will deliver great content for our audiences going into what will undoubtedly be a significant year in news, politics and beyond.”
Martin will take up his new role later this month.
Martin said:
“John Beattie’s shoes are big, metaphorically as well as literally.
“I’m honoured to have been given the opportunity to step into them.
“Together with a wonderfully talented team, John Beattie has given the Drivetime programme a unique style and personality.
“I plan to build on that and add some of my own experience to the mix.
“2024 will be a huge year for news with elections here in the UK, in the US and in many other major democracies around the world.
“There are conflicts, climate change and the impact of technology to report on.
“On a happier note Scotland and the Tartan Army are heading to the Euros and the Olympics take place in Paris.
“And that’s just the stuff we already know about.
“A big year for journalism, a big year for all of us.
“I can’t wait to get started.”
Fiona said:
“It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to have worked as part of the Drivetime team with John Beattie since its launch in 2020.
“He’s literally a giant of broadcasting.
“His compassion , curiosity and good humour were a daily tonic for both the audience and his colleagues.
“John always made his journalism about our audience.
“He holds interviewees to account on behalf of our listeners.
“The respect he showed to colleagues across departments was inspiring.
“He nurtured talent and celebrated the skills of the team.
“Being part of the Drivetime team in one of the most exciting and challenging of news years is an honour.
“The production team consistently drives the news agenda – with energy, enthusiasm and of course original journalism.
“A joy to work alongside.”
Martin and Fiona have been working together on the Sunday Show since its launch in February 2021.
The two-hour show airs from 10am until 12 noon, with Martin presenting the first half hour, which broadcasts simultaneously on BBC One Scotland and on BBC Radio Scotland.
From 10.30am Fiona takes the helm for remainder of the show, as it continues on BBC Radio Scotland.
