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- Tasks: Join BBC's Question Time as a Producer, shaping political debates and guest panels.
- Company: Be part of Mentorn, a dynamic team producing impactful current affairs content in Scotland.
- Benefits: Enjoy a two-year contract with potential extension, plus travel opportunities across the UK.
- Why this job: Make a difference in political discourse while working in a vibrant, collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for journalism and politics; experience in political media is a plus.
- Other info: Apply by 9th May with your CV and a personal statement on improving Question Time.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
BBC 1’s flagship current affairs debate programme, Question Time, is seeking a new Producer. You will have a passion for journalism, current affairs and political debate, and an instinctive grasp of party politics, personalities and UK public life. This in-depth knowledge of domestic parliamentary politics and policy detail is essential because you will be negotiating with political parties and leading politicians for panelists to appear on the show. Judging the right approach takes political insight, sensitivity and confidence.
Decisions about the composition of the weekly panel are core to Question Time. Working to the programme Editor, who decides on each panel overall, you’ll be expected to contribute to and sometimes lead those discussions, coming up with names and ideas for political as well as non-political guests. You should be ambitious for the programme, able to communicate clearly, have the ability and confidence to argue your case, and be able to maintain good working relationships within a positive working culture.
You’ll lead (though not line manage) the briefing and research team. They are responsible for delivering briefs and (especially on programme day) working closely with our presenter to ensure the contents are accurate, relevant, up-to-date and succinct. To deliver effectively, you need to be calm and coherent under pressure.
You should also understand the thinking underpinning the selection of Question Time panels - and the accompanying challenges. Experience of working on any output driven by politics (whether broadcast, print or online) is desirable.
Please note that the opportunity is available for two years initially, with the possibility of being extended. Starting in late August or early September 2025, in time for the new series. Question Time is produced in Scotland by Mentorn, which has staff based in Glasgow and London. The job requires weekly travel. Sometimes that can be Wednesday ahead of programme day. You will always be on location on Thursdays, usually staying overnight on location.
The closing date for applications is Friday 9th May, with interviews following shortly after. You should send your CV to recruitment@mentorn.tv plus 750 words (maximum) on how Question Time can improve, and why you would be the right person for this role. A personal statement is required, as outlined above - only those who have submitted one will be considered for shortlisting. At Mentorn, we value diversity and actively encourage applicants from a wide range of diverse backgrounds.
PRODUCER, QUESTION TIME employer: Mentorn Media
Contact Detail:
Mentorn Media Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PRODUCER, QUESTION TIME
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current political landscape in the UK. Follow key political figures, parties, and recent debates to ensure you can engage in informed discussions about potential panelists and topics.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the journalism and broadcasting sectors. Attend events or forums related to current affairs and politics to build relationships that could help you understand the nuances of producing a show like Question Time.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay calm under pressure by practising your communication skills. Engage in mock debates or discussions with friends or colleagues to enhance your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Research past episodes of Question Time to understand the types of guests and topics that have been successful. This will help you contribute valuable ideas for future panels and demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace PRODUCER, QUESTION TIME
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Producer for Question Time. Familiarise yourself with the show's format, its audience, and the type of guests that typically appear.
Craft Your Personal Statement: Your personal statement is crucial. Use it to showcase your passion for journalism and current affairs. Clearly articulate how you would improve Question Time and why your experience makes you the ideal candidate for this role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous experience in political journalism or related fields. Mention specific projects or roles where you demonstrated your ability to negotiate with political figures or manage a team under pressure.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your CV and personal statement. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your arguments are clear and compelling. A polished application reflects your professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mentorn Media
✨Know Your Politics
Make sure you have a solid understanding of UK politics, current affairs, and the key players involved. Brush up on recent political events and be prepared to discuss how they might impact the show.
✨Showcase Your Ideas
Come prepared with fresh ideas for potential guests and panel compositions. Demonstrating your creativity and ambition for the programme will show that you're invested in its success.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You’ll need to argue your case effectively during discussions, so being able to express your ideas succinctly is crucial.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially for a high-stakes role like this. Practice staying calm and composed, as this will reflect your ability to handle the pressures of live television production.
