Diverse hiring policies and established mentoring schemes essential for engaging future generations

Through discussions on mentorship, recruitment challenges, and the importance of diverse perspectives, speakers emphasised the way that inclusivity drives innovation and is imperative for the industry to connect to the next generation of audiences.

Tamar Shoham, CEO of BEAMR, spoke on the critical role diversity plays in innovation during the IBC Talent Program. She credited BEAMR’s success — 53 patents and an Emmy Award — to its diverse and inclusive team, highlighting how different perspectives foster creativity. Shoham stressed that diversity, especially gender and cultural inclusivity, leads to fresh ideas and breakthroughs in the media industry.

Carrie Wootten, Co-Founder of the Media and Entertainment Talent Manifesto, delivered a compelling presentation focused on addressing the talent shortage faced by the industry, particularly in technical roles. She referenced an IABM study showing that 80% its members face challenges in recruiting for engineering and technical positions, a statistic that underscores the urgency for change.

Wootten emphasized the need to shift from hiring for “cultural fit” to seeking “cultural add,” encouraging companies to recruit individuals who bring new perspectives and fresh ideas. She argued that this approach fosters innovation and enhances diversity within organizations.

Wootten discussed the importance of developing upskilling pathways tailored to diverse communities, ensuring that opportunities are available to those with non-traditional backgrounds. She stressed that creating an inclusive industry culture not only improves recruitment but also increases retention and productivity, particularly among underrepresented groups who tend to be more loyal when given the opportunity to thrive.

The Rise Academy panel, moderated by Polly Hickling, a Rise Academy Trustee, spotlighted the crucial role diversity plays in the future of broadcasting. Recent graduates Sophie Humphrey, Tom Russell, and Holly Kelly, shared their unique pathways to securing their current roles, demonstrating how non-traditional routes and hands-on experiences are key to finding work in media.

Humphrey, now an Associate Technical Supervisor at Sky, credited her journey to taking advantage of opportunities outside the classroom, such as student-led TV projects. Russell emphasised the importance of networking and real-world experience, recalling how his hands-on work, including a student placement at the World Cup in Qatar, paved the way for his career as a freelance engineer. Kelly, who joined BT through an apprenticeship and later earned a degree from Ravensbourne, highlighted the value of combining on-the-job training with academic learning.

A key message from the panel was the importance of practical experience. All three panellists agreed that projects like Rise Academy’s summer school, which offers students the chance to work with industry professionals and cutting-edge technology, were crucial for sparking interest in broadcasting.

The panellists also stressed the need for mentorship. Kelly noted that her success was supported by people who helped guide her through the industry, and now she’s committed to giving back by mentoring the next generation.