Head of Development

Fatima Shafiq

Overview and Experience

With 15 years of experience devising award-winning factual formats, returning series, and documentary singles: Fatima is one of the most sought-after development brains in the industry. She thrives on gaining access to institutions and is passionate about telling factual stories with a nod to diversity. Most recently the former Broadcast Hot Shot headed the development team at ITN Productions, where over 800 hours were produced across the year. Over her career, she’s been instrumental in securing commissions for BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, Paramount Plus, Peacock, and A+E Networks amongst others. Fatima has held senior development roles at Studio 71, Crackit Productions, and Pi Productions.

Nominated by Derren Lawford, Creative Director Derren Lawford, WoodCut Productions

Whether it’s drinking tea in the living room of a well-known celeb, self-shooting a taster tape following surgeons at work, or brainstorming titles with department heads – where there is a commission to be had, you’ll find Fatima.  
 
Brimming with new ideas and a killer business instinct, she is an up-and-coming leader of unscripted television.

2022 results

78% said being a BT Leader has raised their profile

87% said being a BT Leader has progressed their career

100% of Leader said the programme had improved
their sense of self

Join Our Creative Community

Join our growing community of creatives of colour working in all areas of the TV industry and across genres 

8

Freelancers & Employees

Gain access to exclusive invites and opportunities, extend your networks and get the supported needed to progress your career.

content creators

Exclusive commissioning and investment opportunities, extend your networks and get the supported needed to sell your content and build audiences.

corporate friends & allies

Diversify your staff teams by connecting with talent across genres, roles and levels. Join our growing community of talent managers, determined to make our TV industry more inclusive and equitable.

Join Our Creative Community

Join our growing community of creatives of colour working in all areas of the TV industry and across genres 

8

Freelancers & Employees

Gain access to exclusive invites and opportunities, extend your networks and get the supported needed to progress your career.

content creators

Exclusive commissioning and investment opportunities, extend your networks and get the supported needed to sell your content and build audiences.

corporate friends & allies

Diversify your staff teams by connecting with talent across genres, roles and levels. Join our growing community of talent managers, determined to make our TV industry more inclusive and equitable.