Channel 4 has announced the launch of 2 new programmes, which it believes will strengthen commissioning talent and grow indies in the nations and regions.
The schemes are Junior Commissioning Editor Programme and Business Boost, which are both run by its development and training operation, 4Skills.
The Junior Commissioning Editor Programme has been set up to develop the next generation of commissioning talent outside of London.
This will offer producer level professionals the chance to take the next step in their editorial careers. Over the course of up to 18 months, trainees will be embedded within Channel 4’s Commissioning teams, gaining hands-on experience in content development, editorial decision-making, and production oversight.
Each participant will be mentored by a Senior Commissioning Editor.
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“Commissioning Editors play a vital role in shaping the content we offer to audiences, so it’s essential that these key decision-makers come from a diverse range of backgrounds, both in terms of who they are and where they’re from,” explained Emma Hardy, Channel 4’s Director of Commissioning Operations.
The Business Boost scheme will provide practical, bespoke training for leaders of production companies in the nations and regions. Launching this summer it will offer 2 programmes – the Indie Business Builder for early-stage indies and the Indie Scale Up Programme for more established businesses.
It expects to support a total of 20 indies across both schemes.
“The Junior Commissioning Editor Programme is a strategic and meaningful investment in regional creative leadership. It not only helps us nurture and broaden the range of voices shaping our content but, coupled with our Business Boost programme, it will help build long-term resilience in the UK’s production ecosystem outside of London,” said Sinead Rocks, Channel 4’s Managing Director, Nations and Regions.
The first 3 Junior Commissioning Editor roles are now open for application: two within Lifestyle (based in Glasgow and/or Leeds) and one within Factual Entertainment & Documentaries (based in Bristol). Up to 3 additional placements will be recruited bringing the total cohort to six junior commissioning editors.
