Media Parents

Back in the Game: My journey as a new Mum and job-sharing Edit Producer

Juggling life as a new mum and diving back into the world of TV post- production felt daunting! writes Edit Producer Sarah Mckenzie Webb. But after 10 months of maternity leave, I was eager to return to work, and ideally I needed something that would let me be the mum I wanted to be while still flexing my creative muscles. That’s when luck stepped in – I landed a job share on a show I know like the back of my hand: Married at First Sight UK.

https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/18399/sarah-mckenzie-webb

This opportunity was perfect for dipping my toes back into the TV pool. I was paired with Lydia Akonas, another lovely mum and very established Producer and together, we had all the ingredients to whip up something great. I brought my seven series of MAFS UK/AU experience to the table, while Lydia added her fantastic background in big entertainment shows and reality TV.

Our setup was pretty ideal: Lydia took the reins from Monday to Wednesday, and I wrapped things up on Thursday and Friday. Working consecutive days gave our editor, Will Porter, the continuity he needed and kept our workload smooth and steady. We kept in sync with phone calls, WhatsApp messages, sharepoint documents and by cc’ing each other on every email. We made sure that every note or piece of info was shared between us, so no one was left out of the loop, nor needed to repeat themselves.

One of my favourite parts? The voice notes Lydia would send at the end of her days – long, detailed updates that got me pumped to jump back in. It’s a system that worked brilliantly for us and, honestly, made me realise that job sharing is my new secret weapon for balancing work and motherhood.

Between Lydia and me, with our combined experience on shows like Britain’s Got Talent, I’m a Celeb, Celebs Go Dating, Love is Blind, and Big Brother, we managed to craft an episode that was even better than before. Two producer brains (plus our awesome editor) really do make magic!

https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/18399/sarah-mckenzie-webb

This gig has shown me that I can have the best of both worlds – doing what I love while being there for my daughter. It’s a balance I’m excited to keep in my future projects.

Now, I’m on the lookout for my next Edit Producer role. Ideally, another job share with a fellow talented producer. If you’re reading this and want to chat, whether over a real or virtual coffee, hit me up via Media Parents. Let’s make some TV magic together!