HEAD OF PRODUCTION: SPORTS, E-SPORTS & LIVE EVENTS
About the Job
Job Title: Head of Production – Sport, Esports & Live Events
Organisation: Whisper
Location: Kew, London (4 days in office / 1 day WFH per week)
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Start Date: ASAP
Closing Date: Monday 6 October 2025, 4:00 pm BST
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
About WHISPER
Whisper is a leading global production company specialising in sports, unscripted, and branded entertainment.
270+ team members across the UK and worldwide
Producer of iconic events including Formula One, UEFA competitions, Wimbledon, and The Paralympics
Creator of prime-time documentaries, branded content, and entertainment quiz shows
2023 BAFTA winner and International EMMY nominee
Co-owned by Sony Pictures Television and a seven-times Broadcast “Best Places to Work” honouree
Whisper are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, welcoming applications from candidates of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
Role Overview
As Head of Production – Sport, Esports & Live Events, you will:
Lead production teams across live sport, esports, and large-scale international events.
Drive efficiency, innovation, and creative excellence while ensuring first-class delivery.
Oversee budgets, contracts, and operations for domestic and US-based productions.
Mentor production staff and nurture a diverse network of talent globally.
This role involves international travel and requires a senior production professional with proven leadership in live broadcast environments.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
Partner with the Director of Production to lead teams across live sport, esports, and large-scale live events.
Build systems and workflows to ensure operational efficiency and creative excellence.
Line-manage Production Executives and mentor junior staff, actively seeking diverse new talent.
Work closely with Executive Producers and senior leaders to win and convert new business.
Financial & Commercial Management
Oversee all production budgets, cost reporting, and US-based budgeting.
Drive financial efficiency while maintaining high creative standards.
Negotiate deals with new and returning clients and sign off salaries, promotions, and staffing allocations.
Operational Delivery
Ensure compliance with industry regulations, supplier contracts, and production agreements.
Oversee supplier, freelancer, and talent contracting, including high-value RFP processes.
Maintain ultimate responsibility for Health & Safety and insurance across productions, including high-risk activities.
Collaborate with technical teams to integrate emerging production technologies.
Attend live shoots as required, including international events.
People & Culture
Foster a positive, inclusive workplace that promotes professional development.
Actively champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across all productions.
Develop international freelance networks, particularly within the US.
Required Skills & Experience
Senior-level production management experience, including Head of Production in live broadcast environments.
Strong knowledge of multicamera broadcast technology, studios, outside broadcasts, and remote production.
Ability to build post-production workflows for live and fast-turnaround projects.
Understanding of esports and tournament operations (desirable).
Experience in US productions and budgeting (desirable).
Strong leadership and mentoring skills with proven ability to manage large teams and complex portfolios.
Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to thrive under pressure.
Established relationships with clients, suppliers, and international freelance networks.
Integrity and collaborative spirit to balance company interests with strong external relationships.
Working Pattern
5-day week: 4 days in-office (Kew, London) and 1 day WFH.
Flexitime available subject to production requirements.
Lieu days provided for work beyond a standard week.
How to Apply
Upload your CV and a cover note via the button below, explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this role.
