Simon Vaughan steps down from Lookout Point

Simon Vaughan, Chairman and Joint CEO of Les Misérables indie Lookout Point is to step down from his executive role after ten years.

Faith Penhale, previously joint CEO and creative director of the BBC Studios-backed company, continues as Lookout Point’s sole CEO.

Founded in 2009 by Simon and Justine Vaughan, Lookout Point initially worked with financing and production partners on deals for scripted projects: Ripper Street, The Collection, The Living and The Dead, Parade’s End and Titanic. In recent years, and with the arrival of Penhale in 2016, the company has established itself as a full-service producer of high-end scripted projects. Production credentials so far include the adaptations War & Peace and Les Misérables, both written by Andrew Davies; Sally Wainwright’s To Walk Invisible and forthcoming Gentleman Jack; and Press, written by Mike Bartlett. Andrew Davies’ adaptation of A Suitable Boy will go into production later this year.

In addition to Penhale, the senior team is made up of Damian Keogh, Managing Director, and Saul Venit, COO, both responsible for commercial matters, with a new Head of Legal and Business Affairs just appointed, as well as EP/Director of Development Laura Lankester, Head of Production Louise Mutter and Head of Development/EP Will Johnston.

Simon Vaughan said: “It’s been ten years this year since we started the company and I couldn’t be prouder of all that Lookout Point has achieved in that time, but now felt like the right time to move on. I am very much looking forward to watching it grow and flourish under Faith’s inspiring leadership and as part of the BBC.”

Faith Penhale said: “Simon has played a huge role in the building and success so far of Lookout Point. We all owe him a debt of gratitude and he will be missed. Looking forward, I am excited at the opportunity to create more unforgettable drama. We have ambitious projects on the go, a first-class team and the privilege of working with the best writers in the business.”

Tim Davie, CEO of parent company BBC Studios, said: “Simon’s time at Lookout Point has been characterised by an extremely high quality body of work and exciting growth. He leaves with our heartfelt thanks and the very best of wishes for his next round of ventures and adventures. I am delighted that Faith will lead Lookout Point into its next stage. She heads a team that is now a proven force in production, with fantastic talent relationships, and a very promising pipeline for the future.”