Tamsin Dodgson has been appointed Creative Director at Banijay UK label, Initial, after successfully shepherding the relaunch of Big Brother as the show’s creative head for the last two years.
Recent Initial shows include Last One Laughing (a co-production with Banijay UK stablemate Zeppotron) and 99 to Beat for ITV and more recently for Fox in the US. The business almost doubled revenue in 2024 with growth continuing throughout 2025.
Dodgson has overseen all aspects of the Big Brother franchise since its relaunch on ITV in 2023, including Big Brother Late & Live, Celebrity Big Brother, and Celebrity Big Brother Late & Live.
In her new role, she will oversee Initial’s slate of entertainment and reality TV formats, including flagship shows like Big Brother and Soccer Aid. Reporting to Initial MD, Katy Manley, she will lead on editorial decisions, collaborate with the Development Team to generate new format ideas, and will work closely with Executive Producers, Directors and talent to ensure Initial’s content “remains bold, engaging, and market leading.”
During her career, Dodgson has worked across an extensive range of content, including high profile reality formats, documentaries, and factual entertainment. She has Executive Produced The X Factor (ITV), TOWIE (ITV) and Celebs Go Dating (Ch4), has worked on I’m A Celebrity (ITV), Love Island (ITV), as well as US productions Dancing with the Stars (ABC), Flirty Dancing (Fox), Dance Monsters (Netflix) and I’m A Celebrity (NBC).
Katy Manley, MD of Initial, said: “We’re so pleased that Tamsin is moving into this role. Her talent and wealth of experience make her the perfect person to help shape Initial’s next chapter. As we continue to expand our award-winning slate and build on the momentum of recent successes, Tamsin’s editorial expertise and creative leadership will be invaluable as Initial moves into 2026, creating standout content that resonates with audiences both in the UK and internationally.”
Tamsin Dodgson, added: “Initial have had an incredible year – delivering stand-out, award-winning TV shows that have had real impact. There’s a buzz and excitement as Initial continues to grow, and I can’t wait to get started in this new expanded role, working more closely with the wider team whose talent and creativity are second to none.”
She takes up her role at Initial from the end of November.
Jon Creamer
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