VIS UK Hires New Head of Non-Scripted

Viacom International Studios UK (VIS UK) has appointed Richard Hastings to the position of head of non-scripted programming.

In this newly created role, Hastings will oversee the development, creation and production of all non-scripted content produced by VIS for Viacom’s channels and streaming services in the U.K., as well as for third-party clients. Starting in February, Hastings is charged with building a team of non-scripted program makers and working closely with commissioners and in-house teams to grow existing brands and create new series and specials. He will report to Jill Offman, managing director of VIS UK.

Hastings joins VIS UK from MultiStory Media (formerly Shiver), an ITV Studios company, where he served as creative director, working on commissions for the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Discovery Quest Red. Titles created and produced by Hastings include All Star Musicals (ITV), Britain’s Best Junior Doctors (BBC), Katie Price: My Crazy Life (Quest Red) and My Millionaire Migrant Boss (C4). Prior to ITV, Hastings held the position of head of factual entertainment development and executive producer at BBC Entertainment.

“Richard has an impressive track record for creating non-scripted content for both in-house and third-party commissioners and brings with him significant expertise and invaluable experience,” commented Offman. “Richard joins us at a time of ambitious growth and having someone dedicated to non-scripted will not only drive our award-winning production studios to the next level but ensures that we deliver the highest-quality programming to audiences across the U.K. and beyond.”

“I’m thrilled to be joining Jill and the team at Viacom International Studios UK. This is an exciting time for a studio that has already produced a slate of exciting programming and has a clear vision for the future. I can’t wait to play my part in its future success,” Hastings added.