Welcome to Production Unlocked

Venue: BBC North, Quay House, Media City, Salford, M50 2EQ

BBC Writers in Conversation with Danny Brocklehurst

Discover the realities of a career in television writing as acclaimed screenwriter Danny Brocklehurst (Ten Pound Poms, Brassic) shares stories from his professional journey and offers invaluable insights and advice for emerging writers seeking to break into the industry.

Hosted by Alice Ramsey, Commissioning Executive for BBC Writers and Drama.

So We’re All Youtubers Now?

Creator led video sharing or global broadcaster? Broadcasters and YouTube collaborations go beyond casting influencers. Digital platforms are reshaping audiences and commissioning. Explore how to navigate the challenges and opportunities for Production Companies, Broadcasters and creator led indies in a rapidly evolving landscape. Hear from experts including:

• David Scrivens - Account Director, Little Dot Studios

• Fred Bhat - Executive Producer, Digital & Creator Content for BBC.

• Rick Murray - Founder and CEO of WorkerBee.

Talking a Good Game

Reaching new audiences - increasing accessibility, engagement and visibility of Sport. From live events to rights free entertainment, this session explores the successful scaling and expansion of sport production and live events, from integrating with Entertainment, to embracing the big streamers, creators and digital platforms.

Helen Brown, Executive Editor, BBC iPlayer & YouTube for BBC Sport, joins:

• Matt Stanger - Executive Creative Director and Co-Founder of Platform Media.

• Joe Bennett – Managing Director, BUZZ16.

Q&A with BBC Director-General, Matt Brittin

Join Matt Brittin for an open discussion about the BBC's commitment to engaging and connecting with young audiences, the vital role young people play in shaping and contributing to the creative industries.

The conversation will also explore the future of public service broadcasting and how the BBC represents communities across the UK, with a nod to the BBC’s Made of campaign. This is a unique opportunity to share your views, ask questions, and learn more about careers and opportunities within the creative sector.

Hosted by Lauren Layfield, Presenter, BBC Radio 1

Made of Greater Manchester

Celebrating the heart, humour and communities of Greater Manchester, the changing production landscape and growth, plus the arrival of the Edinburgh Television Festival from 2027. Hear from experts including:

• Heidi Dawson - BBC Head of North of England, Controller, BBC Radio 5 Live.

• Rob Page - Managing Director of Screen Manchester and Space Studio Manchester.

• Cameron Roach - RTS North West Chair, Founder, Rope Ladder Fiction.

All Drama Great and Small 

World-Building to Micro-Drama. From high-end and global scripted shows to new micro-episodes on digital platforms, British drama is growing despite the downturn. What skills and opportunities do you need to know about to navigate the changing Scripted landscape?

• Angelo Abela - Head of Scripted Kids & Family, Lime Pictures.

• Charlie Quinn - Assistant Producer and Script Executive at Quay Street Productions.

• Siobhan Morgan - Executive Producer, Warp Films.

Meet the Commissioners

Gain valuable insights from commissioners and content leaders from across the industry. 

• Ruby Barnhill - Assistant Commissioner, Animation, BBC Children’s.

• Stevie Middleton - Commissioning Executive BBC Sounds / Radio 5 Live.

• Sam Pearson - Executive Producer & Head of Digital Commissioning, Hearst Canvas & Hearst Networks.

Networking reception in partnership with RTS North West

Following the commissioners sessions, the in-person audience and guests will be invited to join a dedicated networking session in partnership with RTS North West. This is to provide attendees with the opportunity to build connections with industry peers, commissioners and production professionals.