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- Tasks: Develop and manage high-end drama projects from concept to production.
- Company: Join Poison Pen, a dynamic team at ITV, shaping the future of drama.
- Benefits: Flexible working, creative environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovative storytelling and discover new talent.
- Qualifications: Experience in drama development and a passion for scripted TV.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Workplace: Commonwealth House, New Oxford Street, WC1A 1NU – expectation is 2 days in the office, though this may vary and the team may require more days in the office as projects progress towards production.
The team is looking for an experienced drama executive with a proven track record for developing drama commissions, seeing them through from early concept to greenlight. The executive will be responsible for maintaining the Poison Pen slate along with the Executive Producer and President, working with them to keep the slate commercial and precise.
The role involves:
- Working with the President and the Executive Producer to manage and build on both the UK and US slate.
- Having a strong knowledge of writers (established and emerging) and an understanding of their suitability to particular projects/genres.
- Fostering and nurturing new and existing writing talent.
- Reading books and scripts under consideration and providing feedback as needed.
- Providing creative feedback and direction on key stages throughout the development process for writers and the development team.
- Bringing ideas to development meetings in line with our development strategies.
- Communicating with broadcasters/commissioners regularly, alongside the ITV distribution team.
- Pitching the slate internally and externally.
- Cultivating relationships with agents, writers, and creatives within the industry.
- Strategising what the slate is missing, where the market is going, and ensuring the team is aware of creative goals.
- Monitoring and remaining on top of trends in programming.
Skills you’ll need (minimum criteria):
- Demonstrable experience as a credited Development Executive (or experienced Scripted Editor) for a minimum of at least two high-end drama productions.
- A minimum of two (2) years of professional experience working in development for a television production company with a proven track record in high-end drama.
- Demonstrable passion for scripted TV.
- Strong understanding of the development process in high-end drama.
- Proven experience in actively researching and identifying up-and-coming writers and directors within the British television landscape.
- Experience managing script submission processes, including responding professionally and efficiently to literary agents and established writers.
- Direct experience providing constructive and insightful development and script notes for high-end drama productions.
- Involvement in taking television drama projects from their initial concept stage through to script commission and development.
- Proficiency in using Final Draft.
- Familiarity with and passion for Poison Pen slate.
Other things we’re looking for (key criteria):
- Strong knowledge of British TV writers, both established and new, and understanding their strengths.
- Excellent editorial skills and instincts to spot strong projects and give helpful feedback on scripts and ideas.
- Experience of story editing.
- Good relationships with literary agents and a talent for building strong connections with writers.
- Experience in contributing creative ideas to develop projects with senior colleagues.
- Demonstrable ability to communicate clearly (both written and verbal) and inclusively with people from a variety of backgrounds and lived experiences with the ability to give clear and sensitive feedback.
- Excellent written skills to deliver a variety of supporting documents quickly and accurately.
- An understanding of diverse UK audiences and a perspective on how to make programmes that appeal to them.
- Experience in presenting project ideas to TV channels or senior leaders.
- Well-organised and able to manage multiple projects at once, paying attention to detail.
- Ability to conduct thorough research to support both development and production, ensuring accuracy.
- An understanding of and alignment with Poison Pen’s values around diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in storytelling.
- A passion for commercial TV (particularly crime and thriller), film, theatre, and comedy, with a keen interest in discovering new talent and trends.
- A flexible, problem-solving mindset, able to navigate new challenges in a fast-paced, growing company.
- Comfortable with a hands-on, multifaceted role, where responsibilities may evolve as the company grows.
- A keen interest in books, graphic novels, animation, podcasts, documentaries, global narratives, and other mediums that could spark new project ideas.
Development Executive, Poison Pen ITV Careers in London employer: Deaf Unity
Contact Detail:
Deaf Unity Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Executive, Poison Pen ITV Careers in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry folks at events or online. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for scripted TV! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them know what excites you about the industry and how you can contribute to their projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to pitch your ideas! Whether it's in an interview or a casual meet-up, having a few solid concepts ready to share can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep an eye on trends! Stay updated on what's hot in the industry and be ready to discuss how you can help shape the future of drama at Poison Pen. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Executive, Poison Pen ITV Careers in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your experience as a Development Executive or Scripted Editor. We want to see your track record in high-end drama productions, so don’t hold back on the details in your CV!
Tailor Your Application: When applying, tailor your application to reflect our values and the specifics of the role. Mention your passion for scripted TV and how you can contribute to the Poison Pen slate – we love seeing genuine enthusiasm!
Be Clear and Concise: Your written communication skills are key! Keep your application clear and concise, making it easy for us to see your strengths and how you fit into the team. Remember, we appreciate well-organised documents!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Deaf Unity
✨Know Your Slate
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in the current Poison Pen slate. Familiarise yourself with the projects, their themes, and the writers involved. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to discuss how you can contribute to maintaining and enhancing the slate.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Drama
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for scripted TV, especially high-end drama. Be prepared to discuss your favourite shows, what makes them stand out, and how they influence your understanding of storytelling. This passion will resonate with the interviewers and highlight your fit for the role.
✨Prepare Insightful Feedback Examples
Think of specific instances where you provided constructive feedback on scripts or projects. Be ready to share these examples during the interview, as it will showcase your editorial skills and your ability to nurture talent effectively.
✨Network Like a Pro
Since building relationships is key in this role, come prepared with insights about your connections within the industry. Discuss how you’ve successfully collaborated with writers, agents, and other creatives. This will illustrate your networking skills and your potential to cultivate new relationships for Poison Pen.