Leavesden's Tovey joins Sky Studios Elstree as MD

Sky has appointed Noel Tovey as Managing Director at Sky Studios Elstree.

In this new role Tovey will take on overall responsibility for the management of Sky Studios Elstree as it becomes home to a range of productions from Sky and NBCUniversal when it opens later this year.

Earlier this week it was confirmed that Universal Pictures’ Wicked, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, will be the first production to take up residence at the 13 sound stage, 27.5 acre facility.

Prior to joining Sky, Tovey held senior leadership roles at Pinewood, Warner Bros Leavesden and Shepperton Studios. Most recently VP Sales at Leavesden, Tovey has over 30 years’ experience in the industry helping to develop Pinewood’s international expansion as well as overseeing operations and client services at Shepperton.

Caroline Cooper, COO Sky Studios, said, “Noel has a vast range of experience within the industry and a deep knowledge of what productions want and need. I am delighted he’s joined Sky to lead our brilliant and growing team as we prepare to launch Sky Studios Elstree, the UK’s newest studio, later this year.”

Noel Tovey, MD Sky Studios Elstree, says, “Sky have been making waves in the industry since first announcing Sky Studios Elstree back in 2019. The fresh perspective and ambition meant I could not pass up this opportunity. I look forward to working with the talented team already in place and officially open the doors soon.”

The broader senior leadership roles at Sky Studios Elstree also include the recently appointed Tom Avison as Director of Operations and Roger Ferrin as Director of Client Services.

Through Sky’s Content Academy, the Studio is currently recruiting school leavers or recent graduates to take up 12 new, year-long, fully-paid roles across its Client Services, Operations and Production Services teams.

Sky’s sister company, NBCUniversal in collaboration with The Mayor of London and Film London also recently announced a trainee scheme to give young Londoners from underrepresented communities the opportunity to work behind-the-camera on high-end NBCU productions, including Wicked.