Senior Vice President, BALA, Universal International Studios

Universal International Studios (UIS), a division of Universal Studio Group, partners with storytellers from around the globe to create bold and distinctive shows with universal resonance. Based in London and led by President Beatrice Springborn, the business' in-house production companies include Carnival Films ("The Day of the Jackal," “Lockerbie: A Search for Truth,” "Downton Abbey”), Matchbox Pictures (“House of Gods,” "Bad Behaviour"), Working Title Television (“Too Much,” "We Are Lady Parts") and Heyday Television ( "The Capture," "Apples Never Fall"). UIS also backs Tony Ayres Productions ("Clickbait," "The Survivors") and is a minority shareholder with a first-look distribution deal in Canada’s Lark Productions (“Allegiance,” "Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent"). Additionally, UIS houses a scripted unit that develops and produces original series such as “Hanna,” and the BAFTA Award-winner "Dodger”, as well as partnering with third parties on series such as “The Dream Lands,” “One Day,” "Everyone Else Burns" and “The Undeclared War”. The studio also includes NBCUniversal Formats, the international sales division that brings content to the global market, including shows such as "The Real Housewives," "Top Chef," "Saturday Night Live," "Hollywood Game Night," "That’s My Jam," "Suits," "Superstore," and more.

At Universal International Studios, we are focused on our commitment to a more ambitious and inclusive future.  Our company values play a huge part in this commitment and the culture of our company.

We’re Ambitious For our Future, We’re In This Together, We’re Actively Inclusive.

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Universal International Studios is seeking a seasoned Business & Legal Affairs executive to lead its UK-based television business and legal affairs team (UK BALA).

This strategic leadership role encompasses oversight of financing, production, development and licensing deals. The SVP will serve as a key advisor to senior stakeholders across the business and collaborate closely with US counterparts, as well as playing an integral part in the UIS senior leadership team. This role reports dually to the Global Head of Business Affairs, UTEG and the General Counsel, UTEG, both based in Los Angeles.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and manage the UK BALA team across development, licensing, and talent deals for scripted content, and for licensing scripted and unscripted programme formats.
• Lead by example across the Studio, delivering strong leadership to the UK BALA team. Driving a high performing & engaged team. Managing development & succession plans for all BALA staff.
• Partner all key stakeholders within USG, UIS and Production Companies, across multiple territories LA, UK, Australia and Canada, as well as being a trusted and influential thought leader within the UIS SLT.
• Accountable for the creation & delivery of the UIS OKR’s, in conjunction with the EVP, UIS and leadership team.
• Provide expertise, guidance and partnership to the President & EVP UIS on all BALA matters, delivering on the strategic goals and plans for the Studio.
• Recognised subject matter expert within NBC wider L & BA communities. Actively participating in the International legal forums and USG BA & Legal teams.
• Negotiate all aspects of above-the-line deals for scripted programming with agents and lawyers, including profit participation.
• Negotiate license agreements with exhibition platforms.
• Oversee programme financing structures, including deficit, and bank-financed models. Lead legal and strategic advice on production structures, incentives, and regulatory frameworks.
• Advise on corporate acquisitions, investments, and joint ventures.
• Serve as a strategic liaison between UK and LA-based teams.
• Collaborate with departments including Creative, Production, Legal, Communications, Finance, Music, Distribution, and Marketing.
• Develop strategic external partnerships & relationship across the UK industry

Responsibilities are not limited to the above description and may be modified at any time by the Company.

• Qualified solicitor with considerable years PQE and extensive experience in scripted television.
• Proven successful leadership in business and legal affairs across UK and US markets.
• Strong negotiation, drafting, and strategic advisory skills.
• Proven experience of developing strong internal & external relationships.
• Familiarity with UK and US guild agreements and international co-productions.
• Established relationships with top talent agencies and talent-side law firms in the UK and US.
• Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Superior organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize work.
• Demonstrated ability to execute and follow-through with accountability.
• Must have UK work authorisation.

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with an NBCUniversal employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation. You can submit your request to [email protected].