Media: Talk of the Trade: Network names

NOW that Andrew Quinn, from Granada, has been named as chief executive of the ITV network, an announcement is expected soon about the key role of chief scheduler. The front- runners are Marcus Plantin of London Weekend and David Elstein of Thames.

Although Thames will remain in existence after its franchise passes to Carlton at the end of the year, it will function only as a programme producer (The Bill, etc) and Mr Elstein might welcome the chance of staying with network television.