Head of Presales - Factual Content

A chance to join a start-up business within the media division of a globally renowned company with a blue-chip brand. 

You will help create world class factual and entertainment TV & film content with global appeal.

The role requires detailed knowledge of international pre-sales and pre-financing.

BACKGROUND

Our client is a very successful and universally known multi-national with well-established media interests.  This role is within a newly-created division which will develop entertainment-first premium commercial broadcast & film content with global appeal that embodies the company’s philosophy and distinctive brand voice.

The long-term goal is to build a media business via pre-sales and co-productions with major networks and streamers. In addition, there is potential for brand partnership deals. In the first year of operation, there will be minimal focus on traditional backend content sales. 

THE ROLE

The division requires its own voice and approach to the global marketplace, to the industry and to the consumer. The Head of Presales/Commercial Partnerships acts as a business partner to the MD to develop and deliver on this goal. They will also directly support the Head of Feature Films. 

The role has a specific focus on entertainment formats, specials and feature documentaries with global appeal inspired by the broader positioning of the company’s main brand in particular lifestyle and sports. 

The successful candidate will work closely with the executive team to successfully position the new division as a major player in the commercial entertainment business. 

The role is primarily based in continental Europe, and relocation is preferred. There will also be  substantial international travel.

Specific Responsibilities

Project Financing - 

• Deliver against revenue and profit targets and impact-related KPIs
• Make strategic assessments and recommendations for best value deal terms on a case by case basis that will deliver on objectives of the new division and of the mother company
• In event of split revenue share, responsible for back office support systems, tracking and admin.

Sales

• Manage the end-to-end pre-sales and/or pre-financing process from initial market analysis, client approach and proposal creation, to final negotiations and contracting of partnership agreements
• Build key brand partner relationships in the global market to generate commercial revenue to support projects
• Representation at markets and delivery of promotional material to partners 
• Manage multiple clients, projects and targets simultaneously to thrive in a fast-paced environment. 

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Critical skillsets include extensive experience in global pre-sales and all additional routes that will enable the division to pre-finance content. 

The candidate will also need excellent relationships with broadcasters, streamers and ideally commercial brand partners, an in-depth knowledge of the original production marketplace and persuasive pitching abilities.

The candidate must  have demonstrable experience of successful deal-making - and the organisational skills needed to create and maintain an intuitive database of project information and status. 

Specific Experience, Knowledge and Skills Required

• Excellent global pre-sales and pre-financing strategy and deal closing skills, and a demonstrable track record in successfully closing favourable deals
• Senior level media experience including, but not limited to, persuasive pitching and successful track record of greenlights from global commercial partners
• Strong contacts database with editorial leadership teams across global television networks, streaming platforms, and brand partners with demonstrable, established client relationships
• Strategic thinker and ‘self-starter’ who takes initiative and ‘makes things happen’.

DETAILS

The remuneration package will be attractive and competitive – and the scope of the company’s operations suggests there will be career development opportunities.

To apply or to learn more, please get in touch with Lumina Search in London. If Lumina doesn't already have your career details, please send your CV/resume

Please note that all applications for this role including those through our client’s own website will be handled by Lumina.