Director, Entertainment

Position Overview

The Director, Live Entertainment role will have a crucial role in contributing to Versant’s next generation of live programming. Partnering with EPs, show runners, producers, writers, social platform collaborators, and internal and external stakeholders, this leader will champion innovation and push the evolution of live content. Reporting to the SVP, Live Entertainment, the Director will play a vital role in creating and scaling dynamic live event franchises across the Versant portfolio, spanning E!,

USA, SYFY, and Oxygen.

The executive will be immersed in the worlds of broad entertainment programming, celebrity and pop culture, have a strong and sophisticated creative vision, and are intuitively aware of what will resonate with a broad range of audiences. They will be expected to be dialed into competitive trends, be capable of identifying emerging talent and bring premium content ideas and event concepts to life.

An understanding of social video and platforms, and live streaming and content creation across social platforms is required. A solid knowledge of the evolving world of AVOD & SVOD streaming platforms is also required.

• Collaborate with the Live Entertainment team in the development and production of live Entertainment programming
• Take new project pitches, assess, and communicate ideas internally and make recommendations for action.
• Innovate and redefine/refresh existing properties.
• Collaborate with the SVP and VP on a multi-platform content plan and assist in the development and delivery of all creative elements.
• Build relationships within the Entertainment community with producers, show runners, and production companies.
• Build strong talent relationships and identify opportunities to grow and develop new talent.
• Work with creative partners at social platforms – e.g. You Tube, Tik Tok, Meta – to develop unique, innovative and immersive live special event content and partnerships.
• Supervise the production of and provide notes on cuts for various development reels, including casting reels, presentations, and full pilots.
• Maintain relationships with agents and talent to stay current in terms of industry climate & future trends.
• Work with Business Affairs to close talent and production deals.
• Work with Production Management to ensure that agreed to concepts are fully realized in production.
• Keep track of competitive network slates/trends and help keep us ahead of what’s next.

• Minimum 7 years working in Live television production and unscripted television series development at a network, production company, or studio or as a producer with a track record of successful creative projects in entertainment/live events featuring immersive viewer experiences.

• Demonstrated understanding of the dynamic nature of live audiences and how best to engage with them across multiple platforms.
• Experience in creatively guiding the strategy and content creation for various platforms.
• Deep knowledge of and connection to celebrity and pop culture with keen eye for both established and emerging talent.
• Knowledge of what content rights are required for each bespoke piece of content distributed.
• Clearly demonstrated passion for live programming.
• Strong experience in developing and/or producing formats for television.
• Experience with “shiny floor” event shows.
• Experience in creating formats from inception.
• Highly collaborative with ability to champion ideas/projects and influence outcomes at all levels of the organization
• A self-starter, who is proactive, enthusiastic, and highly motivated.
• Proven relationships with Producers, Talent, Agents, and Managers.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and relationship building skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, innovative, and high energy environment.

• Bachelor’s degree.

• Willingness to travel.

• Hybrid
  :
  This position has been designated as hybrid, generally contributing from the office a minimum of three days per week. Subject to change based on Manager discussion or business need.
• This position is eligible for company sponsored benefits, including…