RTÉ has appointed Radio 1’s editor of arts, factual and drama, Lorelei Harris, as head of arts and cultural strategy.

Ms Harris has worked in RTÉ since 1985, as a researcher and then as a producer on the Gay Byrne Show on RTÉ Radio 1.

She worked in current affairs in Radio 1 before moving into the features department, where she produced Sunday Miscellany and many other arts/ features series and single documentaries.

In 1994 Ms Harris became commissioning editor of documentaries for Radio 1. In 2000 she was appointed as editor of arts, factual and drama for RTÉ Radio 1.

Recently, she has been responsible for projects such as RTÉ Radio 1’s first World War radio content and RTÉ’s Culture Night activities.

Originally from South Africa, Ms Harris has lived in Ireland since 1979.

RTÉ has outlined its plans for consolidating and building its arts output across all platforms and this appointment follows that prioritisation of the arts and culture genre as a key area of focus.

Ms Harris said she was looking forward to working with colleagues across television, radio, online and mobile.