Indies join forces on key production challenges

Production execs at indies including ZigZag, Brown Bob and Strawberry Blond have joined forces to tackle issues facing the sector, from diversity and inclusion to funding.

Former Lime Pictures unscripted head Derek Drennan has established a working group of production heads and managing directors through his indie support company Nest Productions.

Nest is inviting anyone in a senior management role in a non-scripted indie to join the group, which will host its first meeting in London next month.

Its aim is to share knowledge, experience and information on topics affecting indies, including diversity and inclusion, hiring, retention and crewing, human resources, legal and finance issues and funding options.

The group currently consists of rennan and:

Hal Arnold, director of production, Little Dot Studios
Lara Bishop, director of production, Aurora
Nicki Gottlieb, chief executive of Brown Bob Productions chief executive
Jess Hamilton, head of production, Strawberry Blond
Sarah McQueen, head of production, ZigZag Productions
Andy Mundy-Castle, founder of Doc Hearts

Speaking to Broadcast, Drennan said the working group would help indie execs find their way through the “disarray” created by current economic conditions.

“The big question at the moment is where to get alternative production funding, so this will help link everyone up in harmony ensuring productions get all the support they need,” he said.