Commissioning Editor, National Geographic
Commissioning Editor, National Geographic

Commissioning Editor, National Geographic

London Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Guide 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 permanent role in London with flexible working options and a vibrant team culture.
  • Why this job: Be part of creating compelling content that captivates audiences and makes an impact.
  • Qualifications: Seeking experienced commissioning editors or executive producers with a passion for unscripted genres.
  • Other info: This role champions diversity and inclusion within the workplace.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ 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 a permanent role, based in our Hammersmith office, 4 days a week.

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.

The Walt Disney Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. Disney is committed to forming a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

This role is based in London, UK.

Commissioning Editor, National Geographic employer: The Walt Disney Company (France)

At National Geographic, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters creativity and collaboration in a vibrant work culture. As a Commissioning Editor based in our Hammersmith office, you will have the opportunity to shape compelling narratives across diverse genres while working alongside talented professionals in a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion. With a commitment to employee growth and development, we offer unique opportunities to engage with groundbreaking projects that resonate globally, making your contributions both meaningful and rewarding.
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Contact Detail:

The Walt Disney Company (France) Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

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

✨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 discussions.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the industry, especially those who have worked on unscripted genres. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with potential collaborators and gain insights into current trends.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your ability to manage production budgets and analyse ratings data. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you successfully navigated these challenges.

✨Tip Number 4

Highlight your communication skills and collaborative approach. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate how you've effectively worked with diverse teams and external partners to achieve common goals.

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

Storytelling Agility
Project Management
Editorial Guidance
Collaboration Skills
Budget Management
Production Scheduling
Communication Skills
Factual Accuracy
Audience Analysis
Research Skills
Creative Proposal Development
Understanding of Unscripted Genres
Knowledge of Linear and Streaming Platforms
Cross-Platform Content Strategy

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Commissioning Editor at National Geographic. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and the types of programming they produce.

Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in commissioning or producing content, especially in unscripted genres. Make sure to include specific examples of projects you've worked on that demonstrate your storytelling skills and ability to meet ratings targets.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for storytelling and your understanding of both linear and streaming audiences. Discuss how your experience aligns with the role and how you can contribute to National Geographic's mission.

Showcase Collaboration Skills: In your application, emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with production teams and other departments. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed relationships with external partners and internal stakeholders in previous roles.

How to prepare for a job interview at The Walt Disney Company (France)

✨Showcase Your Storytelling Skills

As a Commissioning Editor, storytelling is key. Prepare to discuss your previous projects and how you guided them from concept to delivery. Highlight specific examples where your editorial guidance made a significant impact.

✨Understand the Audience

Demonstrate your knowledge of both linear and streaming audiences. Be ready to discuss how you would tailor content to meet the needs of different demographics, especially for platforms like Disney+.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Recent Projects

Research recent National Geographic projects such as 'Limitless with Chris Hemsworth' and 'Tsunami Race Against Time'. Be prepared to share your thoughts on these shows and how you could contribute to similar projects.

✨Emphasise Collaboration

This role requires close collaboration with production companies and internal teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked with others in the past, focusing on communication and relationship management.

Commissioning Editor, National Geographic
The Walt Disney Company (France)
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