Conker Pictures to Open Belfast Office

Conker Pictures, the scripted company set up by former BBC commissioning editor Tommy Bulfin and former Apple TV+ drama commissioner Kim Varvell, has revealed plans to open Conker Pictures NI in Belfast.

The new office will focus on making contemporary and original series with global appeal from Northern Ireland by working with local writers, talent and crews. The London office will remain the company headquarters, with Bulfin remaining in London and Varvell relocating to Belfast.

Bulfin and Varvell will continue to oversee the business jointly.

With support from Northern Ireland Screen and the BBC, Conker Pictures NI is recruiting a development assistant trainee to work from Belfast. Applications are open via the Northern Ireland Screen jobs website.

“I am hugely excited to be relocating to Belfast and to be opening Conker’s first regional office,” Varvell said. “Professionally, the region is teeming with creativity, inspiring storytellers and incredible talent. Personally, I am going to be incredibly proud to call Belfast my home. We can’t wait to get going and are grateful for the support and advice of Northern Ireland Screen and the BBC in helping us make this move.”

Bulfin commented, “I have had the good fortune to work on many productions in Northern Ireland, and I have always been blown away by the talent and professionalism on show there. Having a base in Belfast will allow Conker to really make roots in the region and nurture creative relationships. Northern Ireland is home to some of the very best crews and creative talent in the industry. I am very excited by the potential and know that Irish stories and talent will resonate worldwide.”

“As the TV/drama sector locally goes from strength to strength, we are delighted to welcome Conker Pictures to Northern Ireland under the esteemed leadership of Tommy Bulfin and Kim Varvell,” added Richard Williams, chief executive of Northern Ireland Screen. “Their combined experience in commissioning high-profile dramas and their commitment to cultivating local talent will undoubtedly bolster opportunities for our local writers, talent and crews.”