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Director of Comedy Commissioning
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Director of Comedy Commissioning
Director of Comedy Commissioning – BBC Commissioning
- JOB BAND: Senior Leader (SL)
- CONTRACT TYPE: Permanent / Full Time
- DEPARTMENT: Commissioning
- LOCATION: Flexible – any BBC base
We’d be happy to discuss flexible working. If you’d prefer to, please indicate your preference in the application, though it’s not mandatory at this stage. Any discussions on this will take place during the offer stage.
Purpose of the Role
At the BBC, comedy is at the heart of what we do—bringing people together, reflecting modern Britain, and shaping national conversation. And, of course, making us laugh.
We’re seeking an exceptional Director of Comedy Commissioning to lead the next chapter of BBC Comedy. This is a rare opportunity to define and deliver a bold, distinctive slate that entertains millions while championing new voices and representing the diversity of the UK.
The Director of Comedy Commissioning will report to the Chief Content Officer, taking responsibility for commissioning the Comedy genre across the BBC’s portfolio of TV channels, iPlayer, and expanding it into new digital platforms and formats. Leading a team of commissioners, you will identify and help develop both the best of British comedy and emerging talent, shaping an editorial strategy that reflects the diversity of the BBC’s pan-UK audiences.
By directing the development process, you will determine BBC Comedy’s priorities and support an inclusive culture that encourages risk-taking, backing fresh voices and innovative ideas.
Key tasks include:
- Securing projects that foster creative innovation and set a benchmark for quality and ambition.
- Building and nurturing a strong UK-wide comedy talent base.
- Managing the finances of the Comedy genre while ensuring value for licence-fee payers and maintaining excellence across a wide range of projects.
- Ensuring commissioning decisions align with editorial standards, cost considerations, rights value, and funding needs.
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Why Join the Team?
Joining the BBC means you’ll shape the future of comedy on one of the world’s most respected public service broadcasters.
At the BBC, you’ll:
- Create the content that reaches and resonates with millions.
- Champion representation, authenticity, and new perspectives.
- Collaborate with leading creative talent across the UK.
- Be part of an organisation committed to informing, educating, and entertaining.
Key Responsibilities & Impact
You will:
- Set and deliver the BBC’s comedy strategy, keeping it aligned with our public service mission.
- Commission standout scripted and unscripted comedy, covering both returning hits and bold new formats.
- Champion fresh, diverse voices and build the next generation of talent.
- Expand digital storytelling across platforms (including YouTube), experimenting with new formats to engage audiences.
- Work closely with writers, performers, and independent producers to bring ideas to life.
- Ensure comedy output reflects the breadth of UK audiences and meets high editorial standards.
- Lead and inspire a high-performing commissioning team.
- Use audience insights and performance data to guide creative decisions.
- Act as an industry ambassador for BBC Comedy.
Required Skills & Experience
We need a creative leader with a deep passion for comedy and a proven ability to deliver high-impact content. Ideal candidates will have:
- A proven track record of successful, innovative programming.
- Significant senior experience in:
- Comedy commissioning.
- Development.
- Production.
- Outstanding creative instinct and editorial judgment.
- A strong understanding of:
- UK audiences.
- The evolving comedy landscape.
- Experience working with diverse talent and driving inclusive storytelling.
- The ability to:
- Lead, influence, and collaborate at the highest level.
- Develop creative partnerships and influence key stakeholders.
- Communicate effectively internally and externally.
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Key Leadership Attributes (BBC Enterprise Leader Timelines)
At the BBC, leadership means aligning with our organisation’s values, goals, and interests above individual needs. Successful candidates will demonstrate:
- Focus on outcomes over activity.
- The ability to adapt quickly and simplify complexity.
- Balancing short- and long-term impact.
- Taking full accountability for decisions and actions.
- Prioritising capability development to build future-fit teams.
If your experience aligns with— or complements—that framework, we’d be thrilled to receive your application.
Important Notes on Recruitment Process
Before your start date, you may be required to disclose unspent convictions or police charges, in line with our Recruitment policy. This allows us to discuss any support needed and assess risks. Failure to disclose may result in the withdrawal of your offer.
Disclaimer (Recruitment Policy & Screening)
This job description outlines the essential characteristics of the role, including its key accountabilities, required skills, experience, and expectations. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties.
If you are offered this position, the BBC will conduct Employment screening, including:
- Reference checks.
- Eligibility to work in the UK.
- Safeguarding and Adverse/Social Media checks.
Any offer remains conditional on these checks being satisfactory.
For general enquiries, contact: bbchr@bbc.co.uk
Application Instructions
Only online applications will be accepted. Please avoid sending CVs and proceed through our official application process.
Abbreviated on behalf of the BBC.
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