Commissioning Editor, National Geographic in London

Commissioning Editor, National Geographic in London

London Full-Time 36000 - 60000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
Disney

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead exciting projects from concept to broadcast for National Geographic's global series.
  • Company: Join the iconic National Geographic, known for its storytelling and exploration.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with 4 days in the office and 1 day remote.
  • Other info: Work in a diverse environment that values different voices and perspectives.
  • Why this job: Be part of creating compelling content that captivates audiences worldwide.
  • Qualifications: Experience as a commissioning editor or executive producer is essential.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.

The National Geographic Commissioning Editor is responsible for expertly guiding projects across the full lifecycle of production, from concept to creation, to delivery and broadcast for premium and non-premium global and international series, as well as special hours for both Disney+ and linear channels. This person should demonstrate a true storytelling agility through a deft application of the craft across a broad range of genres from adventure, science, history, docu-drama, hosted and premium factual.

Some recent examples of projects that the Global team has worked on include: Limitless with Chris Hemsworth, Tucci In Italy, Tsunami Race Against Time and Titanic: The Digital Resurrection, while EMEA projects include Car SOS, Europe From Above, Lost Treasures Of Egypt, Ice Road Rescue and Hitler’s Last Stand.

The Commissioning Editor will collaborate closely with production companies to provide editorial guidance that enables producers to create compelling visual content with powerful storytelling, resulting in entertaining programs that meet/exceed ratings goals. This role will cover both EMEA projects as well as Global ones, working across both linear channels and Disney+. They will report to the SVP of Production, with a dotted line into the SVP Development. This is an office-based role, with 4 days a week working in the Hammersmith, London office and 1 day working from home (Monday or Friday).

What You Will Do

  • Create premium programming that exceeds ratings targets.
  • Collaborate with producers to implement the programming strategy.
  • Communicate channel needs and strategy to producers.
  • Work up proposals to take them through the greenlight process, pre-production, casting, scripting, rough-cuts, fine cut and final delivery.
  • Deliver shows that are on budget and schedule.
  • Work closely with Production Management to maintain highest editorial standards within budgetary requirements.
  • Provide timely feedback to production companies to maintain production schedule and make sure all contractual obligations are met.
  • Coordinate with Marketing, Ad Sales, Communications and Digital to provide information and materials necessary for the development and generation of Cross-Platform content initiatives and strategy.
  • Work closely with Research to ensure factual accuracy and maintain the highest brand standards.
  • Work with analytics/insights teams to strategize topics, titling, audience demographic in order to increase TSV and ratings.

Experience

  • We are looking for a seasoned executive, with extensive experience working as a commissioning editor or executive producer.
  • Experience working across a broad range of unscripted genres.
  • A firm understanding of both linear and streaming audience sensibilities.
  • Working knowledge of production budgets and ability to analyse ratings and other research data to better understand NG’s own programming and the competitive landscape.

Competencies

  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with team members and manage relationships with both external producing partners as well as within NG’s internal corporate structure.
  • NG Channel Executives are ambassadors and protectors of the National Geographic Brand. They will be expected to uphold the standards and practices of the National Geographic brand in a variety of environments.

This role is based in London, UK.

Commissioning Editor, National Geographic in London employer: Disney

At National Geographic, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture in our Hammersmith, London office. As a Commissioning Editor, you will have the unique opportunity to shape compelling narratives across diverse genres while collaborating with talented production teams, all within a supportive environment that prioritises employee growth and creativity. With a commitment to diversity and a focus on delivering premium content for global audiences, we offer a rewarding career path where your contributions truly matter.

Disney

Contact Detail:

Disney Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Commissioning Editor, National Geographic in London

Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with National Geographic's recent projects and their storytelling style. Understanding the nuances of their programming will help you demonstrate your alignment with their vision during interviews.

Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the industry, especially those who have worked on unscripted genres. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the commissioning process.

Tip Number 3

Showcase your understanding of both linear and streaming platforms. Be prepared to discuss how you would adapt content strategies for different audiences, as this role requires a firm grasp of diverse viewing habits.

Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your experience with production budgets and analytics. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully managed costs while delivering high-quality content, as this is crucial for the role.

We think you need these skills to ace Commissioning Editor, National Geographic in London

Storytelling Agility
Project Management
Editorial Guidance
Collaboration Skills
Budget Management
Production Process Knowledge
Proposal Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a commissioning editor or executive producer. Focus on your work across various unscripted genres and any specific projects that align with National Geographic's programming.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, demonstrate your storytelling agility and how your experience aligns with the role. Mention specific projects you've worked on that showcase your ability to create compelling visual content and meet ratings goals.

Showcase Collaboration Skills:Emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively with production companies and internal teams. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed relationships and communicated strategies in previous roles.

Highlight Analytical Skills:Discuss your experience with production budgets and your ability to analyse ratings and research data. This will show your understanding of audience sensibilities and how you can contribute to National Geographic's programming strategy.

How to prepare for a job interview at Disney

Showcase Your Storytelling Skills

As a Commissioning Editor, storytelling is key. Prepare to discuss your previous projects and how you crafted compelling narratives across different genres. Highlight specific examples that demonstrate your agility in storytelling.

Understand the Audience

Familiarise yourself with both linear and streaming audience sensibilities. Be ready to discuss how you would tailor content to meet the expectations of diverse viewers on platforms like Disney+ and traditional channels.

Demonstrate Collaboration

This role requires close collaboration with production companies and internal teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked with others to achieve project goals, and be ready to discuss your approach to maintaining strong relationships.

Be Budget Savvy

Understanding production budgets is crucial. Be prepared to talk about your experience managing budgets and how you've ensured projects stay on track financially while still delivering high-quality content.