Julie Eckersley departing as SBS Head of Scripted
"Farewell SBS. I am so proud of what my wonderful team and I have achieved over the last 3 years."
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SBS Head of Scripted Julie Eckersley has bid farewell to SBS ahead of her contract conclusion, after three years in the role.
“Farewell SBS. I am so proud of what my wonderful team and I have achieved over the last 3 years. We’ve created a record number of shows, elevated a record number of historically under-represented creatives, both in front of and behind the camera, continued to build on the recognition of SBS dramas on the international stage, backed new writers, new directors, new producers – all in our ongoing vision to expand the power base for creators in this country,” she posted on LinkedIn.
“We’ve hosted the TV Lunch to give everyone access to our commissioning process, created the free pitch deck guide, had a record number of award nominations & wins, told stories that truly represent who Australia is from those who have the right to authentically tell those stories. There is always more to do, and I look forward to seeing this work continue.
“That is the way change happens. This is who SBS should be. It has been an honour to serve Australia in this way.”
Kathryn Fink, SBS Director of Television said, “SBS has announced the upcoming departure of Julie Eckersley with the conclusion of her contract. She has played an important role in the delivery of Australian stories that reflect and champion contemporary Australia, with shows like Safe Home, While the Men Are Away, Erotic Stories and more recently, Swift Street and the upcoming Four Years Later, connecting with Australians and global audiences. We thank her and wish her all the best.”
Eckersley, who was previously a producer with Matchbox Pictures, was awarded Commissioner of the Year from Screen Producers Australia in 2023. In addition to the pitch deck guide she introduced the SBS Scripted TV Lunch, providing an online monthly forum for industry to connect with SBS commissioning team.
SBS has also delivered several Digital Originals including Appetite, Latecomers and Night Bloomers and welcomed a new Scripted Commissioning Editor in Nakul Legha.
SBS is yet to announce her successor.