Head of Drama Development [C5810]

Play a pivotal role in developing and implementing a range of projects for a new production company.

THE COMPANY

Our client is a new production studio set up by two highly successful US executives which will produce multi-genre projects in both film and high-end TV projects for global audiences. 

THE ROLE

As Head of Development, you will be responsible for developing and implementing the company’s development projects, originating and pitching new project ideas across various genres.   

Key responsibilities:

• Work hand-in-hand with company’s CEOs (one in UK & one in NY) and partners to define and execute the content strategy
• Grow and implement the development slate
• Manage and move forward the projects on the slate, originating, working up and pitching new programme ideas
• Communicate and meet with agents, legal representatives, writers, producers, directors; showing a high level of awareness of the U.S. domestic television market, UK and international television markets, and articulating the current development strategy for the company, whilst constantly displaying a knowledge of individual channel needs 
• Understand that the above may also on occasion apply to feature film projects. 
• Work directly with writers, developing their ideas, giving notes on documents, treatments and scripts
• Attend meetings with streamers, studios and broadcasters to influence and pitch ideas 
• Identify, foster and nurture new and existing writing talent through both direct contact and agents, making sure that the company is courting the best voices at all levels of experience 
• Read and assess commissioned scripts/treatments and also newly submitted ideas/scripts
• Continuously identify existing IP ripe for adaptation or remake and delegate rights acquisition enquiries to corporate counsel in Los Angeles
• Demonstrate sound editorial judgment about ideas, based on an understanding of streamers, studios and broadcasters’ needs and target audience

THE PERSON 

With a deep passion for multi-genre drama, you will have a proven development background in TV & film gained in a drama production company.

Skilled at finding excellent stories which have global appeal, you will have strong relationships with both talent and agents, and the ability to persuade them to come to you with their projects. 

A keen understanding of American working culture and a comfort level doing day-to-day business with Los Angeles and New York City is key.  

It’s important you are a confident pitcher, able to sell ideas. Current commissioner relationships in the US would be extremely useful, but not essential.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Searchlight only advertises active roles
• Your details will be sent directly to the Consultant who is handling this role
• We aim to respond to candidates within 14 days.

If this role isn’t quite right, but you would like us to have your CV on file, please send it to sroffice@searchlight.com.

Searchlight strives to promote equal opportunities for all. We welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion and/or belief.

To learn more about Searchlight, see:  www.searchlight.com.