Devon-based indie, Rock Oyster Media, has named Charles Wace as Chairman, amidst a series of executive hires.

Wace, who founded now ITV-owned Twofour, will be joining the board and supporting plans for the development and growth of Rock Oyster Media.

Wace will support founders Charlotte Davis, Creative Director and David Nottage, Managing Director, as they and the wider team build on the company’s reputation for delivering successful daytime returners, funding solutions for talent-led factual series in the travel space, and plans for expansion into entertainment.

Wace will also help shape the digital ambitions of the business as Rock Oyster Media looks to leverage its experience with brands and developing IP in the social space, a project on which the company is collaborating on with former commissioner and brand agency executive, Mark Sammon.

The appointment follows a number of key hires including former Twofour executive, Neil Edwards, who is charged with overseeing a number of key projects; Caroline Allan, who delivered dozens of complex international programmes over her time at Twofour and beyond; and producer/director Chris Williams.

Charles Wace said: “I’m delighted to join Rock Oyster Media and play a strategic part in helping them grow and expand from their base in the South West, an area that has been close to my heart throughout my career.”

Charlotte Davis, Creative Director, said: “We’ve built Rock Oyster to be a genuinely modern indie — creatively ambitious and commercially agile, with a real track record of delivering returnable series and unlocking innovative funding models. I am delighted that Charles is joining us as Chairman. At this stage it is  all about building on that momentum, and his experience of scaling a business from a regional base to an international player is invaluable. We’re excited to have his perspective and acumen as we continue to grow the company across both broadcast and digital.”

David Nottage, Managing Director, added: “Charles’ track record speaks for itself – he created a company that started humbly in Devon and grew to be one of the most respected producers internationally. Since selling Twofour, Charles has continued to be trusted advisor in the TV industry, while developing a range of diverse businesses. Charlotte and I are excited to see how Charles will support and steer our ambitious plans as Rock Oyster Media continues to produce beautiful content – on the TV and beyond.”

Rock Oyster Media – founded by David Nottage and Charlotte Davis – is based on the coast of Devon – with bases in London and a team UK wide. Current shows on air and in production include Gary Barlow’s Wine Tour (ITV), Josie’s Taste of the Westcountry (ITV) Dianne & Joe: Raiders of the Lost Crafts (Hearst Networks), Martin & Roman’s Irish Road Trip (Channel 4), Oti & Richard’s South African Odyssey (Channel 4) & Ainsley’s Fantastic Flavours (ITV).