Talk us through an average day in your role
Of course, every day is different. As a membership organisation, Directors UK represents over 8,000 TV and film directors, collecting royalties for them and supporting them throughout their careers. Taking today as an example, I’m preparing for our town hall meeting where I’m looking forward to updating members on the work we’re doing for them and hearing about the issues which matter most to them. This afternoon I’m headed out to a negotiation meeting, which is, of course, a big part of our work to ensure that our members receive fair royalty payments as the programmes they direct are enjoyed by audiences around the world.
Later I’m hoping to catch up with our policy team. They lobby and campaign to influence government on issues such as copyright and working conditions, which are important to our members as freelance directors. With many directors not working right now, we’re doing all we can to support them.
How did you get started in the media industry?
After I left university with a music degree, I knew I wanted to do something in the creative industries. A job came up at PRS, the organisation that collects royalties for songwriters, and this felt like a good place to start. I quickly learned the critical role that royalties play in supporting creators and helping them to have sustainable careers. To be a part of making that happen gave me a sense of purpose that has stayed with me throughout my own career. My path through PRS over many years took me to a role where I was negotiating deals with the likes of the BBC, ITV, Sky and Netflix. That gave me a good grasp of the TV broadcast industry which eventually led me to Directors UK.
What training did you have before entering the industry?
Nothing specific and I’ve mostly learnt as I’ve gone along. I was lucky to start working in the era before email where, if you wanted to get something done, you’d go and speak to whoever you needed to speak to. Through doing that, and without ever trying to network, I made connections and friendships and I’ve got to work with a lot of inspiring people who I’ve learnt from.
Why do you enjoy working in the industry?
Every day I get to work with, and work for, the people that create the television programmes and films that enrich our lives – entertaining us, making us think, connecting us with others and sometimes providing an escape. Knowing that what I do plays a part in allowing them to continue creating is hugely rewarding.
What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a role similar to yours?
Keep your options open, try different things and don’t be afraid to take a few wrong turns as that can help you work out what you’re good at and what you like.
