BBC Alum to Lead Entertainment at True North

True North has hired former BBC exec Kieron Collins as the company’s head of entertainment, effective later this month.

In his new role, Collins will help build True North’s entertainment slate across a variety of broadcasters. He most recently served as managing editor of BBC Entertainment North. His credits include A Question of Sport, Dragons’ Den and Mastermind. He also co-developed and executive produced The Boss.

Andrew Sheldon, True North’s creative director, said: “We’re delighted to have Kieron on board. He’s an experienced business winner and exec who is committed to developing talent and production in the North, and is ideally placed to exploit the industry’s call out for new entertainment shows.”

Collins noted: “True North have built a hugely successful business on a genuine commitment to out-of-London production, creating global content from the North of England. On top of that, they’re lovely people. And they have a drinks trolley in the office every Friday. It’s a dream job.”

Meanwhile, Fiona O’Sullivan (Teen Mom UK, The Lie Detective), an executive producer at True North, has been named head of factual entertainment and reality while continuing to run their Manchester base. She first joined True North in 2011.

O’Sullivan added: “It’s a really exciting time for True North with both our Leeds and Manchester sites in rude health. Key talent like Kieron will help us secure the next phase of growth for the company in new areas and we are delighted to welcome him on board.”