Ali Arsalan
In a significant development for the UK’s Film & TV Charity, Marcus Ryder, a respected figure in diversity and a former BBC news executive, has been appointed as the organization’s new CEO. Following the departure of Alex Pumfrey, who joined ITV earlier this year, Ryder is set to assume the leadership role in the early autumn.
Marcus Ryder Expands Support Initiatives at Film & TV Charity as CEO
Marcus Ryder, a renowned former BBC news executive and advocate for diversity, recently founded the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity and holds the position of Chair at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.
The charity has been actively engaged in enhancing its assistance for professionals in the film and TV industry, addressing cost-of-living challenges and providing vital mental health support and research. During Alex Pumfrey’s five-year leadership, initiatives like the Mental Health Taskforce were launched, and substantial funds, over £6M ($7.8M), were raised in response to the Covid crisis.
Marcus Ryder’s Appreciation for Film & TV Charity’s Impact and Vision
In his new role, Ryder praised the organization as a crucial support system and also highlighted the charity’s significant contribution to the well-being and sustainability of industry professionals, and its research efforts in shaping discussions about the treatment of creative talents in the UK.
“It is an incredible source of support for people working behind the scenes across the film, TV, and cinema industry, acting as a vital enabler for those facing disadvantage, financial hardship and poor mental health.”
Marcus Ryder
Meanwhile, Claire Tavernier, former Fremantle Global Head of Digital, assumes the role of Chair of Trustees, succeeding Cameron Saunders and Andrew Wilson-Mouasher.