Silhouette of a TV production in progress
Careers in the creative industries still carry something of a mystique, not least because finding a way into them rarely follows the four-year college degree > internship > entry-level job route. In this limited series of interviews, I spoke with creatives that have built their careers in some of the most desirable fields. I uncover what it took to get there, and what it’s really like once you’ve landed that dream job.
The TV Producer
Alana Tiernan is a Development Producer at Studio Ramsay Global (Gordon Ramsay’s production company), working across BAFTA-nominated and award-winning shows for both the British and US markets. For the past six years Alana has been part of the team developing shows including Next Level Chef and Gordon Ramsay’s Future Food Stars. Working between London and Los Angeles, Alana is passionate about telling female-led stories, is an advocate for promoting women in the industry both on and off screen, and mentors two women currently breaking into the industry.
Did you always want to work in TV?
“I just never, ever, wanted a normal job. I’d watch movies on repeat when I was a child, and I specifically remember watching the behind-the-scenes package of Wild Child with all the cast and crew on set, and thinking that’s exactly where I want to be. I never actually thought it could happen… and that I could be paid for it”
What did it take to land your first job in the industry?
“Everyone says you need to know someone, which isn’t always the case, but it definitely gives you a huge advantage. I didn’t know anyone, and it was a long slog of unpaid work experience, being on unemployment, being a Christmas elf, and about 1000 job applications later, being invited for an interview at [British hit soap opera] Emmerdale.
I had been previously rejected twice, but it was my dream to work on the famous soap in my hometown, Leeds, since I was a teen. Once I got Emmerdale, the other TV jobs came more easily as I had that first credit. But prior to then, I’d done everything I could to get experience, even being an extra on Film/TV productions just to see how it all worked behind the scenes.
Earlier, I had been an extra on a music video of a friend-of-a-friend, and the director ended up bringing me on to his first feature film as Production Manager, and then on to several other projects, including Three Day Millionaire, which made the UK Top 5 Films list on Netflix. It absolutely pays off to do those odd jobs here and there as you never know where it can lead.
I went to college, but you definitely don’t need to go to work in TV, but I met loads of really talented people I am still friends with and work with now, so whatever works for you.
After various television runner jobs, I eventually got my first London job, which was an assistant role at a new company that Gordon Ramsay had launched. I didn’t even know that development was a job that existed, but the team I joined brainstormed show ideas all day long, then figured out a way to sell them to commissioners at BBC, ITV, Netflix, Fox, etc. Over the years, my primary focus became selling ideas through editing sizzle-reels. These are short concept tapes which help convey the energy and tone of a show, a bit like a movie trailer. I worked my way up and became a Development Producer at 26, and have been at the company just over 6 years”
Were there points where you wanted to give up?
“Depending what area of TV you work in, the hours can be really long. You have to really love it and for some productions, be prepared to set aside your personal life for several months on end, especially if travelling abroad… so it’s a lifestyle choice, but I have loved every moment”
What has surprised you along the way?
“The TV industry is made up of such a variety of roles and there have been so many opportunities to get involved with all sorts over the years. I have physically constructed the sets for show run-throughs, I’ve created stop-motion pitches, taste-tested food business products, flown to Lapland and back in under 24 hours… the list goes on”
What is the thing that you like least about your job?
“Genuinely nothing”
What is the best part of your job?
“As a development producer you are pretty much paid to think, which is not bad at all. I absolutely love getting to be creative every day, coming up with big ideas for new television shows. The best part of my job has been working with a solid team for years and building up the courage and understanding to ask for what you want – because if you don’t ask, you won’t get. This is especially important for women, particularly when it comes to pay.
Last year, I directed my first ever short film, Holly Ramsay: The Talk, which was awarded Best Social Change and nominated for Best Short Documentary at City of Angels Women’s Film Festival in Los Angeles. It has been an unbelievable experience and it all started out as pitching a quick and simple no-budget concept tape at the start of 2022. Ask! Worst they can do is say no”
Your best advice to someone getting started in the industry today?
“Keep in touch with all your contacts from every job, from runners to executives, you never know who will end up working exactly where you’d like to be. If you can, be helpful, and potentially get someone else set up with a job or a useful contact. They may well be able to return the favor for you one day.
I love side hustles and have chosen to bridge my film and TV work for the past 8 years, which has meant I have been able to meet and work with amazing, talented people in film, alongside my television job, and build up my credits in both. I have also run an art business alongside my paid work, to keep several income streams open.
Someone once told me to leave a job when you stop learning, and not to listen to anyone that talks you out of going after what you want. It’s really scary putting yourself and your ideas out there, and the imposter syndrome is real: that inner voice is going to be stronger than ever at these points. It’s really important to surround yourself with the kind of people that will encourage you to take risks, believe in you and tell you to go for it”
