October hires Vice Studios’ Breakwell

UK- and US-based producer October Films has appointed an executive from Vice Studios as head of topical programmes.

Neil Breakwell

In the newly created role, Neil Breakwell will develop and executive produce programming with a particular focus on live shows, fast-response documentaries, younger-skewing formats and integration across digital platforms.

He was previously VP of news and current affairs at Vice Studios responsible for news and current affairs development.

Before joining Vice, Breakwell held various roles at the BBC including deputy editor of Newsnight and produced the Corporation’s UK and US election coverage.

October has seen a period of substantial growth over the past three years, increasing its turnover, hours in production and client base in both the UK and US.

Recent shows on the indie’s slate include Journey in the Danger Zone: Iraq for BBC2; Eight Days That Made Rome for Channel 5; Can Science Make Me Perfect? with Alice Roberts for BBC4; and Home Alone for Investigation Discovery.