12 month, fixed-term contract. In partnership with BBC Comedy and Screen Scotland, The Comedy Unit is supporting a 12-month placement for a Scottish-based Development Producer. The scheme is designed to support local talent, strengthen Scotland’s creative community and grow the production pipeline in this key area. Company: Banijay stands as the largest international content producer and distributor; home to over 120 production companies across 22 territories, and a multi-genre catalogue boasting over 88,000 hours of original standout programming. Built on independence, creative freedom, entrepreneurialism and commercial acumen, the company, launched in 2008, operates under the direction of Chief Executive Officer, Marco Bassetti and in the UK Patrick Holland. The Comedy Unit has been making award-winning comedies since 1996 and is led by Managing Director, Rab Christie. Based in Glasgow, the company prides itself on bringing laughter to large audiences. Titles include Still Game, Rab C Nesbitt, Scot Squad, Stevens & McCarthy, Chewin The Fat, Burnistoun, Gary: Tank Commander, Limmy’s Show, The Scotts, Noising Up and Fags, Mags and Bags. About this role: This is a fantastic opportunity for mid-level production creatives who have a passion for scripted comedy and are looking to develop their skills. All applicants must be based in Scotland. The ideal candidate will have A passion for scripted comedy with an understanding of the value of both mainstream and alternative material. Experience of script reading and/or story producing with ability to demonstrate sound editorial judgement. Knowledge of key agents and new talent within the industry, and an ability to develop strong working relationships with both. Ability to spot and champion emerging comedy talent and creatives. Previous experience of working in scripted television/radio preferred but not essential. Duties: The Development Producer’s role is to: Build-up, generate and maintain a slate of development projects. Create and assemble pitches. Pitch ideas. Collaborate and liaise with key talent, agents and The Comedy Unit staff. Nurture and maintain relationships with commissioners and broadcasters. UK travel will be required to meet talent, commissioners and broadcasters. Knowledge and skills: Essential: A passion for scripted comedy. An excellent awareness of the current comedy landscape- on terrestrial TV, on streamers, online, on radio and in stand-up. Knowledge of and ability to develop strong working relationship with key agents and talent within the industry – writers, writer-performers, actors, directors, content creators and stand-ups. Script-reading experience and sound editorial judgement. Ability to create knockout pitch documents and treatments. Ability to work independently. Self-motivated with an awareness of setting self-deadlines. An ability to move nimbly and react to potential pitching opportunities. An awareness of the Comedy Unit’s back-catalogue and talent relationships and how these could lead to new commissions. Desirable: Technical skills: the ability to work with images, text and graphic elements. Ability to create 'tasters', 'talent tapes' 'pitch videos' and 'sizzles'. Interest in new pitching opportunities including investigating funding models and co-commissioning opportunities across broadcasters and internationally. Closing date: 8th November 2024