The BBC is to advertise for a new head of comedy.

Geoffrey Perkins has quit the job after six years to join production house Tiger Aspect.

He will leave in January to become creative director of the company that has been responsible for Mr Bean, Gimme Gimme Gimme and Billy Elliot

Alan Yentob, the BBC's director of entertainment, told MediaGuardian.co.uk: "Geoffrey has been a major contributor to the BBC's comedy output over the past six years, developing an exceptionally talented creative team and delivering shows as diverse as Jonathan Creek, Happiness and the forthcoming Only Fools and Horses.

"We are really sorry to see him go but completely understand Geoffrey's desire to get back to writing and hands-on production."

Perkins was previously a member of the Radio Active team alongside Angus Deayton, and has written for Harry Enfield, Spitting Image and Smith and Jones.