When Offline Editor Daren Tiley hadn’t worked in a while, he chucked Easter under a bus and worked through it on a fast turnaround doc – in fact two in a row. So was it worth it?

Offline Editor Daren Tiley working on C5's fast turnaround doc Kate and the King https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/9614/daren-tiley

I’ve worked on two fast turnaround docs commissioned by Federico Ruiz at channel 5 in the last month for Mentorn Media part of the Tinopolis group, writes Daren Tiley. “Wonka: The Scandal that Rocked Britain” and “Kate & The King: A Special Relationship”.

Both productions worked on an unusual fast turnaround of 11 days from production start to channel delivery with TX on Saturday night primetime viewing. So 12 days to TX for a 45 min Channel5 hour.

Production starts on a Tuesday, with interviews shot on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and some at the weekend. Staggered edits start Friday to Wednesday through the weekend at MSV post in Hammersmith, with 5 editors and EPs working for 5 days to get to picture lock by end of day Wednesday. Each editor takes on a part each with the 5th editor cutting pre titles and any extra bits and bobs. I cut part 4 on both Wonka & Kate myself.

Then voiceover, dub, grade and online all on the same day for channel delivery on the Friday lunchtime for Saturday primetime TX. Phew!

Daren Tiley right and the fast turnaround production team at Mentorn Media

A great team of experienced editors and edit producers worked between 10 & 12 hours a day to make the shows. The calm and collected nature of SP Stuart Strickson on both productions meant a pleasant working experience. Tayte Simpson Execed Wonka and Nicolai Gentchev on Kate also perpetuated the calm.  When working at such speed for delivery you need a great unflappable team behind you.

These fast turnarounds are becoming more popular with Channel 5 commissioners these days and although I don’t think it’s great to see 11-day turnarounds as the norm, it is getting us telly folk back to work on some commissions at least. And the viewers are over all liking the speed of reacting to a breaking news story! Wonka pulled in an audience of 800k, peaking at nearly a million, and was the most watched programme of the day, as was Kate & The King.

Having had no work for the last 6 months it was nice to get five days on Wonka and four  days on Kate. To be back as a team all working together was helpful for my mental health as the last year or so has been and continues to be so hard for so many of us in the TV world! The pace and last-minute nature of this work isn’t sustainable on a single, TV income, so whilst I am grateful for it, I hope it’s replaced by programming that’s scheduled further in advance.

Daren Tiley is available for offline editing work either remotely or from London post houses. https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/9614/daren-tiley

www.dtediting.com

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media.

I love trees, writes PD and Edit Producer Lorraine Molloy. My love of trees took me on a 500 mile round trip from Cornwall to London last month. It was my first ever visit to the Royal Courts of Justice.

I was there supporting an amazing group of people from a campaign group called STRAW (Save The Trees of Armada Way). They had successfully called for a judicial review into Plymouth City’s Council handling of the felling of more than 100 trees in the city centre.  The felling took place back in March 2023 causing public outcry and it received national press coverage. My own personal reaction was to create a short film (https://vimeo.com/924892037) and I was fortunate enough to have it screened as part of Plymouth’s first ever Urban Tree Festival! I called on some good big hearted people who kindly gave their time and talents for free. My next step is to get it pitched….any ideas are very welcome. Media Parents has had a commission before I know – lightning can strike twice.

A year ago I was in a position to be able to create a film with no budget. But we all know how quiet it’s been over the last year and now though I really do need to earn some money – as much as I’m a huge believer of IMPACT OVER PROFIT!! Being a single mum to a 14 year old daughter, along with the juggle of self employment has made me even more tenacious, patient and tough (with a soft centre). I can deal with a teen so bring on the next challenge!

Over the last 20+ years I have producer credits ranging from Channel 4’s Location, location location to the BBC’s Great British Menu and Channel 5’s Hotel Inspector. I edit produced remotely on STV’s Great Auction Showdown in 2022 and more recently I have picked up location scouting work for film and commercials, and music videos. I’m based in Cornwall so it’s not surprising that the locations around me are frequently on screen.

Storytelling is my fascination and I love being involved in whatever form it takes. I’m open to work, shared roles, part time, full-time, adhoc and it doesn’t need to be in the south west, I’m very flexible. To contact Lorraine about the film or work go here: https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/5872/lorraine-molloy

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media. Next event at midday 28th March online. Mail us a CV for more details

Telemetry Media’s Matt Ralph in conversation with TV Switch Up about leaving TV for corporate work. Matt kindly got in touch to suggest sharing his experience with freelancers and to say thanks to Media Parents for helping him relaunch in TV when he returned to the UK from Australia. Our pleasure, thanks for paying it forward!

Matt Ralph from Telemetry Media

Matt’s creative career began in television production in the late 1990s. Since then, he has had the opportunity to develop, write, produce, shoot, direct and edit programmes and series, for international broadcasters, including the BBC and the Discovery Channel.

A founding member of the senior management team at the UK’s multi award-winning digital channel, BBC Three, Matt specialised in multi-platform content strategy working closely with social, marketing, production, development and channel scheduling teams to ensure maximum audience engagement.
Matt joined Anglo American in March 2020 from Brunswick Creative, where he worked on client accounts ranging from Nokia to HSBC. Matt lives in South-West London with his wife, two daughters and a Sprocker-poo called Monty, he is an Australian dual citizen and holds a First-class honours degree in Fine Art Sculpture.

How can I present my CV and skills? How can I get connected? Is it a one way street?

By TV Switch Up – A Telly Mums Group

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs.

Sheffield’s iconic and longest running music venue, The Leadmill, was the location, writes Producer Jodie Chillery. It was a hot summers eve, I’d just watched Doc Fest’s screening of Joe Cocker: Mad Dog With Soul. Engaging in what I was sure was an important and career enhancing conversation with its director, my enthusiasm fuelled by Guinness and the heady excitement that doc fest induces, I thought; “If these guys can make successful feature docs, so maybe, one day can I!“ I even put this in a text and sent it to my series producer. Because of course, then, I was gainfully employed. We all were. He replied with equal enthusiasm telling me that indeed it is “a privilege to work in this industry, full of so much opportunity“. I don’t know what he’d been drinking!

https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/4945/jodie-chillery Jodie Chillery working with Richard Hammond on his Workshop for Discovery+ 2022

Six years later in 2023, and the industry was on its knees in crisis, with writers’ strikes, actors’ strikes, commissioning and advertising freezes. We’ve been told to “hold our nerve” we’ve been assured it will “pick up by September”, yet BECTU confirmed 70% of respondents to an industry survey were still not in work. But most appallingly neither was I. In 20 years I’d only had 6 weeks out of work, unless for childbearing reasons or choice. May 2023 was my fifth consecutive unemployed month and that of my 40something birthday: enough to bring on a midlife crisis and mild depression. I did not feel much of that afore-mentioned privilege right then.

Finally, an opportunity arose, at a fledgling company I’d never heard of, for a project seemingly shrouded in mystery. I arranged to meet the exec. I arrived on my bike in the pouring rain. I dripped all over the very obviously new rug in their basement meeting room, and had to keep removing my glasses to wipe my persistent steam.  None of this was the look I was hoping for at my first job interview in months.

That mystery project, it turns out, is possibly the most career-enhancing film I’ve ever worked on, without doubt it’s been an incredible privilege, and a feature doc to boot!

Jodie Chillery, Producer on location for Cop Car Workshop, UKTV

I’ve gained a gaggle of new best friends aged between 7 and 15 all facing huge crises of their own. I’ve laughed and cried with them in equal measure, as they allowed us into their lives to share their most vulnerable, and most resilient moments. I’ve laughed and cried even harder with the crew at the end of long shoot days from hotel Beefeater bars in Fife, Scotland, to gun slinging saloon bars in Fort Worth, Texas.

It’s a cliche, but it’s been a journey. One I never imagined possible back in midlife-crisis-may. And perhaps that’s fate. However bad the hardship freelancers of the unscripted TV crisis face, nothing compares to my new “BFFs” who have been dealt a seriously shitty hand.

My band of cheeky contributors have in common a cruel experience of childhood cancer. A brutal disease that is alleged to be rare in children. But it’s on the increase, and the need for new research into kinder, age-appropriate treatments never greater. Only 2% of funds raised for research into cancer treatment goes on the cancers that attack children. This is horrific of course, but I can sense you’re thinking; “Who on earth would choose to watch a feature doc about kids with cancer?” Well, wait till you meet the kids. The narrative is led by them, and shot from their POV, this film is not what you might have come to expect from a cancer doc. (Is that even a genre?!)

It’s about children, about their experiences, and all the madness of life.

Yes there are some devastating scenes, but there are many more uplifting ones. As with any 7- or 15-year-old, there’s friends, school, annoying siblings, pets, parents and piano practice, and then unlike the rest, there’s cancer. There’s no end to their stories, the impact continues for everyone and that is the overarching point this film makes. Cancer never leaves, in-fact remission is perhaps just the start.

It’s a compelling and important watch. I would say that. As I’m plunged back into this ongoing uncertain TV jobs market, at least this time, I’m safe in the knowledge I did produce a successful feature doc, and it was indeed a privilege. However bad my midlife crisis, its child’splay compared to the adversity faced by these kids. If they can carry on with smile, then so can I.

Jodie was the Senior Producer and additional Director on this new feature doc which is due to be released this summer, when we will be able to share all the TX details, watch this space to find out more. To contact Jodie log in to Media Parents and click here: https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/4945/jodie-chillery

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media.

Emma Bellars https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17828/emma-bellars

freelancers finding it tough out there contact the Film + TV Charity for support here: https://filmtvcharity.org.uk/get-support/

www.mediaparents.co.uk - the jobs and social networking site for short term, part time, job share and regular hours jobs in media.

Hi there! writes Producer Stephanie Carpanini. I’m a first time mum and long time Producer looking for a job share. I have worked in casting (C4’s Secret Life of the Safari), location and story (A&E’s Prison Brides), studio (BBC’s MasterChef), as well as commercial and branded content projects (Southampton FC’s 23/24 kit launch).

Producer Stephanie Carpanini is looking for a job share or part time work. https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17704/stephanie-carpanini

I’ve been in TV for over 13 years working across fact ent, obs docs and some reality. I would like to gain edit and welfare experience, and work on varied content jobs.

If anyone at a similar level with a similar CV would want to chat about a job share then please get in touch!

https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17704/stephanie-carpanini

I am looking to return to work in April/May either in a part time (3/4days a week) or job share capacity. Then build back up to full time, as my daughter settles into nursery. I am happy to do recces or location shoots in the UK, for short periods of time whilst my daughter is still young.

Producer Stephanie Carpanini is looking for a job share or part time work. https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/17704/stephanie-carpanini

If anyone at a similar level with a similar CV would want to chat about a job share then please get in touch! Log in to Media Parents and click here for Steph’s contact details.

Join us for Media Parents jobs, events and training at www.mediaparents.co.uk.

Who Am I?

writes Production Manager Bella Gregory.

Bella Gregory, PM https://www.mediaparents.co.uk/freelancers/11003/bella-gregory

Imagine Liz Lemon, with her endless supply of quirky quips and snack foods, meets Olivia Pope, with her unshakeable resolve and impeccable wardrobe (okay, maybe just the resolve part). That’s me, Bella Gregory, striding through the world of production management with my trusty notebook in one hand and a bag of cheesy blasters in the other (to my absolute horror these have actually become a thing that people consume – hot dog, rolled in a pizza, covered in so much cheese).

From managing complex international shoots to negotiating with demanding crew, talent, vendors etc. I’ve done it all with a blend of humour, strategy, Kindness, compassion and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Why I’m the Gladiator in a Suit You Need:

International Fixer:

I’ve tackled production challenges across the globe, from the bustling streets of London and New York to the remote reaches of the Congo, all while keeping my sense of humour intact.

Budget Wizard:

Crunching numbers while I find the best deal on night cheese, I maximise every penny of a budget, ensuring the show goes on without a hitch.

Crisis Avenger:

When production snafus arise, I channel all my energy handling each crisis with a “consider it handled” attitude and a side of Lemon-esque quips.

Team Leader Extraordinaire:

Leading with a mix of compassion, humor, and a no-nonsense approach, I inspire the team to achieve the impossible, proving every day that “there’s always a way.”

What’s Next:

I’m looking for my next big challenge, a project that requires a unique blend of creative problem-solving, steadfast leadership, and the ability to laugh in the face of adversity (and occasional danger). If you’re in need of someone who can navigate the complexities of production with finesse and relatable humanity, let’s make TV magic together.

Let’s Connect:

For a brainstorming session, a crisis consultation, or just to share your favourite “30 Rock” quote, reach out. Let’s create something memorable.

Bonus Fact:

I am an actual New Yorker from NY, who holds dual UK/USA Citizenship. (I have jumped on many a red eye to LA to just deliver rushes).

Log in to Media Parents and click here to see Bella’s CV

Join us for Media Parents jobs, events and training at www.mediaparents.co.uk.

Arrow Media x Media Parents Production Networking
Thursday July 14th 12 – 1:30pm online

Carrie Pennifer meets Media Parents Archivist Tracey Li at Media Parents previous networking

Arrow Media is partnering with Media Parents to meet PRODUCTION TALENT ONLINE on Thursday 14th July from Midday – please come.

If you are a Production Manager, PC, Production Exec or Line Producer in unscripted, available now, soon, or just keen to meet the Arrow team, please RSVP to events@mediaparents.com with your CV and availability by July 13th, the sooner the better, and we will send you zoom details.

Please title your email Arrow Media Parents Networking.

The Arrow team is keen to support flexible working and jobshare on their productions, so this is a great opportunity to discuss that and meet the team including Heads of Production Carrie Pennifer and Stephanie Mavropoulos, Head of Talent Julia Hardwell, Talent Coordinator Emily Charalambides, and Media Parents’ Amy Walker.

Arrow Media's Joint Head of Production Carrie Pennifer

Carrie Pennifer, Head of Production

Carrie joined Arrow in 2012 as Production Manager on the Discovery series Ultimate Warfare. She went on to manage numerous successful series and one-offs including three seasons of the global hit observational documentary Ultimate Airport Dubai for National Geographic before being made Production Executive in 2016.

During her near decade at Arrow, she has worked across Arrow Media and Arrow Picture’s entire slate of projects overseeing up to 70 hours in production simultaneously as well as those in development. These have been for all the major international broadcasters and include such iconic projects as Animal Fight Night, America in Color, See No Evil, Extreme Rescues, Speed, 9/11: Escape from the Towers and I, Sniper. In the run up to being made Co-Head of Production, Carrie has seen several projects successfully through the Pandemic. These include Arrow Media’s Shark Week documentary Rogue Tiger Shark: Hunt for Lagertha; and, for Arrow Pictures, the landmark feature documentary Generation 9/11 and Sky’s upcoming series on HIV/AIDS in Britain, Positive.

Arrow Media's joint Head of Production Stephanie Mavropoulos

Stephanie Mavropoulos, Head of Production

Stephanie Mavropoulos joined Arrow when it was formed by Tom Brisley, Iain Pelling and John Smithson in 2011, and has led its production teams for over a decade. Stephanie leads a project from commission to delivery, ensuring budgets are met while supporting the high editorial ambitions of the company.

She pioneered the production style that delivers returnable high-volume hits like the 20-parters of American Monster, See No Evil and Body Cam. Stephanie works across Arrow’s flagship feature length crime series, Mind of a Monster and is responsible for their new 3 x60 mini-series brands. She has also worked on notable series including two-hour event doc Live From Space for Channel 4 and National Geographic; and BBC2 and Smithsonian co-production 747: The Plane That Changed The World. In 2020 she was the Co-Producer for Arrow Media’s Emmy-nominated theatrical release feature, Under The Wire.

Head of Talent Julia Hardwell

Julia Hardwell, Head of Talent

Julia started her TV career on Children’s classics such as Art Attack, Newsround and Blue Peter. From Production Manager at the BBC, she moved into Talent Management at ITV and then Studio Management where she oversaw studio facilities for shiny floor live and pre-recorded productions such as Later with Jools Holland, Take Me Out and Catchphrase. In 2019, Julia joined Arrow as Talent Manager, working closely with Talent Consultant Dawn Beresford  across all aspects of recruitment, training and development. Recently armed with her CIPD HR qualification, Julia aspires to support all levels of talent with their career development at Arrow.

Talent Coordinator Emily Charalambides

Emily Charalambides, Talent Coordinator

Emily began her career in Television for the business news channel, CNBC Africa in South Africa.  The experience fuelled her desire to continue within the TV world and she made her move to London to expand her skillset.  She landed in Specialist Factual/Factual, starting out as an Executive Assistant before moving over to Production. She has experience working on flagship returning formats such as BBC2, Inside the Factory and BAFTA nominated, C4’s The Dog House.  Armed with transferable production skills, she recently joined Arrow International Media as Talent Coordinator and assists the Head of Talent, Julia Hardwell with recruitment across all roles.

Join us for Media Parents events, jobs and training at www.mediaparents.co.uk.

Today David Postlethwaite (Pos), Head of Production, is remembered by friends and family with a service in Bristol, where he lived and worked. If you would like to watch the service online at 1pm on June 9th 2022, details are below. Pos supported Media Parents from its inception, was instrumental in returning hundreds of parents to TV, and in supporting many people’s families and dreams. He was a joy to work with, a kind and fair man, who could make you cry with laughter. He will be greatly missed.

Pos rose up through the ranks at the BBC, progressing rapidly from Unit Manager to Production Executive managing programmes including Country File, Ray Mears, 999, and, ironically considering the state of his second best Saab, Top Gear.

He moved from the BBC to work as Head of Production at award winning Natural History indie Icon Films, then to Touch Productions in Bath where he was Head of Production and responsible for finance, hiring staff and the smooth running of productions, often in the USA. In his own words, Pos ensured his teams functioned safely, effectively and happily in the office and on location. He was loved and respected by his teams for being a fair, hardworking, kind boss with a sense of humour that could get you through the longest of days.

Ultimately as well as a leader, he was a team player, a people person without compare – you always knew where you were with him, he was fiercely loyal and inspired fierce loyalty. If he wasn’t impressed by something he would let you know, and he was a master of pithy character description. (Still making me laugh now). Thank you Pos, for everything.

David is survived by his wife Pam Haddock and his children Shirran and Nick. The family would prefer that, rather than organising flowers for the funeral, you make a donation to a charity close to your heart.

Watch our blog for details of our event. Join us for Media Parents events, jobs and training at www.mediaparents.co.uk.

ITN Productions are delighted to invite Media Parents to a June Networking event. Please click the image below for the link to register if you work as a Series Producer, Director, AP, PC, PM, Editor or in Post Production.

June Event: ITN Networking, see our Media Parents blog. Watch our blog for details. Join us for Media Parents events, jobs and training at www.mediaparents.co.uk.