Studio Lambert Taps Dragons’ Den EP to Launch Manchester Hub

Studio Lambert has hired Darrell Olsen in the role of head of unscripted for Studio Lambert North, establishing the company’s new regional base in Manchester.

Olsen has been executive producer on BBC Two’s Dragons’ Den for the last two years and was previously series editor of the show. He takes up the new role in January and will report to CEO Stephen Lambert and Tim Harcourt, Studio Lambert’s creative director.

Production of some of Studio Lambert’s returning series will move to Manchester next year, and the company will also develop and produce new series there. Studio Lambert North marks the company’s third production base, adding to its offices in London and Los Angeles.

“Establishing a permanent regional base is a significant step for us,” said Lambert. “I’m delighted someone with Darrell’s considerable experience and talent has agreed to spearhead our ambitious plans. We appreciate the pressure on U.K. broadcasters to commission out-of-London and moving the production of some of our returning series to Manchester means Studio Lambert North will get off to a flying start.”

“I have hugely enjoyed working with the Dragons’ Den team in Manchester over the last four years and I am very proud of what we have achieved,” added Olsen, “but I feel it’s time to take on new challenges and the opportunity to set up a regional business with Studio Lambert, a company I’ve long admired, was irresistible.”