Neil Smith, the former joint-MD at betty, is to become the new managing director of The Apprentice producer Boundless – one of a number of new appointments at the FremantleMedia-owned factual entertainment label.
Ben Mitchell, formerly Head of Popular Factual at Shine TV, joins Boundless in the newly-created role of Director of Programmes.
Cal Turner, currently the Executive Producer of the The Apprentice, has been promoted to the role of Head of Popular Factual, and will continue to oversee The Apprentice.
John Comerford becomes Head of Boundless West and Factual Features, with a newly-expanded role that includes responsibility for factual features programming within Boundless.
Neil Smith replaces Hannah Wyatt who was hired by BBC Studios in September to run its Factual Entertainment & Events division.
The appointments were announced by Liam Humphreys, CEO of FremantleMedia UK Unscripted. He commented: “Boundless is already a market leader in factual, with an enviable pipeline. I am confident that the best-in-class talent that we are bringing into the label will create and develop brand new, game-changing factual entertainment formats and build even further on its formidable reputation.”
As joint-MD at betty, Smith was in charge of all production and development at the indie. Key programme credits include: The Undateables, Tricks of the Restaurant Trade, Ugly House to Lovely House, and Mission Survive. Recent commissions include the forthcoming series Gone To Pot for ITV and Get Fit Fast for Channel 4.
Ben Mitchell joins from Shine TV where he co-developed and executive produced The Island with Bear Grylls for Channel 4. During his 20 year career, he has also produced and directed formats, including Shipwrecked, Undercover Boss, Kevin McCloud’s Man Made Home and The Hotel.
Smith joins Boundless next month and Mitchell joins in the New Year, along with Damian Pitman – newly-appointed Director of Development, Boundless.
Staff Reporter
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