Indie October Films has hired former Vice Studios exec Neil Breakwell to serve as their new Head of Topical Programmes.
In the newly created senior role, Breakwell develop and executive produce new programming with a particular focus on live shows, fast response documentaries, younger skewing formats and integration across digital platforms.
Breakwell was previously Vice-President of News & Current Affairs at Vice Studios, where he was responsible for the company’s news and current affairs development and factual content. Before joining Vice, he held various roles at the BBC including Deputy Editor of Newsnight and producing the Corporation’s UK and US election coverage.
“Neil brings a wealth of experience of producing exciting, innovative content for both traditional broadcasters and online platforms”, said Adam Bullmore, Managing-Director of October Films. “He’s the perfect fit to complement the October team as we continue to expand our output for broadcasters in the UK and internationally.”
The hire comes on the heels of substantial growth for October Films. In the last three years, the indie has significantly increased its turnover, hours in production and client base in both the UK and US. The company is one of the largest “true indies” and was placed fourth in a recent survey ranking the top 100 British small and medium-sized private companies with the fastest-growing international sales.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be joining October, which has such a great reputation for making a wide range of high quality programmes”, added Neil Breakwell. “I am looking forward to working with October’s creative team to help build a slate that is relevant, ambitious and memorable for audiences.”
