At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive into the world of art, uncovering hidden stories and mysteries behind fascinating works.
- Company: Join the BBC's acclaimed arts programme, Fake or Fortune?, in a vibrant Bristol team.
- Benefits: Freelance contract with competitive pay, hybrid working, and a chance to work on exciting projects.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic environment focused on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of a thrilling investigative journey that blends art, history, and storytelling.
- Qualifications: Experience as an Assistant Producer in factual programming and strong research skills required.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
Fake or Fortune? is a thrilling, investigative art history detective story which endeavours to uncover the truth about mysterious works of art and other treasures.
We are currently recruiting for 2 x Assistant Producers to join our new series in Bristol.
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role on one of the BBC's most successful arts programmes.
Contract Dates: AP 1 – 14th of September 2026 – 26th of February 2027 AP 2 – 28th of September 2026 – 19th of March 2027
Base: Bristol (Hybrid working with an office presence of a minimum of 3 days a week)
These roles are offered as a PAYE freelance contracts.
Working closely with the Shooting PD and Casting/Story Planning AP, the Assistant Producer will undertake in-depth investigative research into the fascinating stories behind artworks and artefacts, tracking provenance, following leads, and helping to uncover the truth behind each case.
The successful candidate will be highly organised, an excellent researcher and storyteller, and able to manage multiple lines of enquiry simultaneously.
A genuine interest in art, history and factual storytelling is essential.
Responsibilities include
- Conducting detailed investigative research into artworks, artists, collectors and historical events, using a range of sources including online databases, libraries, archive collections and record offices.
- Working closely with the Producer/Director to develop storylines, identify provenance, evidence and contributors, and pursue leads to support the relevant editorial direction of investigations.
- Building and maintaining positive relationships with contributors, museums, galleries, institutions, collectors, academics and experts.
- Managing access negotiations with museums, institutions and filming locations in the UK and abroad to secure permissions and facilitate filming requirements.
- Preparing and organising research notes, filming props, briefing documents, handover documents and supporting materials for presenters, producers and production teams.
- Working with high‑profile presenters, contributors and experts, always ensuring excellent communication and professional standards.
- Contributing to script development, fact‑checking and editorial compliance processes throughout a complex and changing production.
- Scheduling and supporting the production of filming shoots in the UK and internationally, including occasional second‑camera operation where required.
Required experience
- Demonstrable experience working as an Assistant Producer on factual, specialist factual, arts, history or documentary programming.
- Proficiency in at least one foreign language, with the ability to conduct research and communicate with contributors internationally.
- Strong investigative research skills, with experience using research resources and records as well as managing multiple lines of enquiry and handling complex information.
- Excellent writing and storytelling abilities, with experience translating detailed research into compelling editorial content.
- Proven experience negotiating access with museums, cultural institutions, contributors and filming locations.
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise workloads and meet deadlines.
- Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills, including experience working with senior contributors, experts and on‑screen talent.
- A genuine interest in art, history and investigative storytelling.
Desirable experience
- Full UK driving licence.
- Knowledge of the art world, art history, provenance research or related disciplines.
- Experience working on internationally focused productions or stories involving overseas research.
- Knowledge and experience of researching, sourcing and clearing stills and archive material.
- Self‑shooting experience and confidence operating a second camera when required.
BBC Studios is committed to increasing the diversity of its workforce, and we strongly encourage applicants from under‑represented backgrounds to apply.
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Assistant Producers, Fake or Fortune? employer: BBC Studios
Joining BBC Studios as an Assistant Producer for 'Fake or Fortune?' in Bristol offers a unique opportunity to work on one of the UK's most acclaimed arts programmes. With a commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture, employees benefit from hybrid working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and the chance to engage with high-profile contributors in the art world. This role not only allows you to delve into fascinating stories but also supports your growth in a dynamic environment that values creativity and investigative storytelling.
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We think this is how you could land Assistant Producers, Fake or Fortune?
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