Development Researcher

BBC Studios - Fact/Ents; Bristol; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Join BBC Studios as a Development Researcher for 'Countryfile', one of Britain's most beloved factual series. You'll shape the content by uncovering engaging rural stories, drawing from your strong knowledge in nature, farming, or rural history. This role requires creativity, collaboration, and an unwavering passion for the UK countryside, with a commitment to diversity in storytelling.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years' experience in factual TV or radio.
• Knowledge of rural England and key stakeholders.
• Skill in pitching ideas and storytelling.

Responsibilities

• Shape content for 'Countryfile' and uncover rural stories.
• Engage with stakeholders and create pitch documents.
• Collaborate within a team to deliver original programme ideas.

Skills

Storytelling

Interpersonal Skills

Planning

Time Management

Creativity

Adaptability

Job description

Countryfile, BBC One’s flagship factual series and one of the UK’s most-watched factual programmes, is seeking an experienced Development Researcher to join the team.

Reporting to the show’s Senior Producers, you will play a crucial role in shaping the content of Countryfile.

The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of at least one of the following topics: Nature, Farming, or Rural History, and will be passionate about uncovering rural stories across the UK.

Countryfile has covered numerous stories over the decades. Therefore, the right candidate should know various methods to discover new stories and have creative tricks to find fresh angles on familiar topics.

We are looking for individuals who have:

• At least two years’ proven experience working in factual TV or radio.
• Experience in initiating and delivering creative, ambitious, and original programme ideas, and in uncovering compelling stories.
• A genuine interest in the UK countryside.
• Knowledge of key organisations and stakeholders shaping the UK’s rural agenda, with the ability to engage effectively with them on behalf of the BBC.
• Skill in creating engaging pitch documents.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively within a team.
• Strong planning, organisational, and time-management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Experience in directing presenter-led factual content is desirable but not essential.

Base: Bristol, with a minimum of 3 days per week in the office.

Start Date: 21st July, for an initial period of 3 months.

BBC Studios is committed to diversity and encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including neurodivergent individuals, those with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds, to ensure our programmes reflect a diverse range of skills, experiences, and talents.