SBS has made multiple staffing changes within its drama team, with Julie Eckersley appointed head of scripted and Donna Chang promoted to commissioning editor, scripted.
Eckersley joins SBS with extensive industry experience as a producer and in development across a range of genres, including drama, comedy, animation, documentary and children’s content.
Julie Eckersley
As head of scripted, she’ll oversee an expanding slate of locally commissioned fiction content, as well as related industry initiatives championing inclusion in the Australian screen sector.
In her nine years at Matchbox Pictures, she worked on projects including The Family Law, Glitch, and Maximum Choppage.
Eckersley said: “All Australians should feel seen on our screens and I’m thrilled to join SBS as they lead the way in achieving this.
“My focus will be on supporting talent, in front of and behind the camera, as we create stories that celebrate and explore our diverse perspectives and shared humanity. I’m looking for great stories that are entertaining, surprising and full of heart.”
Meanwhile, Chang takes on the new role of commissioning editor, scripted, having joined SBS in 2020 as a development executive. Her industry experience includes time as head of development for Lingo Pictures and as a development executive for Screen Australia.
She’ll be working closely with Eckersley, taking on an expanded role in developing and delivering SBS’s pipeline of commissioned scripted projects.
Chang said: “At the core of our Scripted slate and industry initiatives is a commitment to making great local drama that showcases under-represented voices and talent. It’s a privilege to work in service of these stories at SBS, and I look forward to continuing this work with Julie.”
Donna Chang
SBS said the appoints come as part of a focus on developing and showcasing under-represented talent in its scripted offering, including premium television series, short form content for SBS On Demand, and investment in low budget films and landmark initiatives for screenwriters.
SBS director of content, television and online, Marshall Heald, said: “We have a fantastic slate of new scripted programming in development and production, and it’s an exciting time to welcome Julie to the team.
“We’re thrilled to have someone with her extensive experience and passion for our Charter to lead our Scripted offering, working closely together with Donna in a larger role that will fully recognise and utilise her exceptional talents.”
SBS thanked Penny Win who has been acting as the head of SBS scripted over the last six months.