Ex-Virgin TV head Kiely launches prodco

Former Virgin Media Television MD Pat Kiely has launched a production, talent management and commercial partnerships company in Dublin.

Pat Kiely

BiggerStage will develop original content for the global market and hopes to showcase Ireland as a hub for international television production.

The company will represent established talent in broadcasting and entertainment, with a development programme offered for rising talent.

It will also partner with industry stakeholders to develop news ways to fund and scale the audiovisual sector, as well as leveraging market benefits and incentives in Ireland.

The team includes Sean O’Riordan as creative director. O’Riordan has previously worked in production and development positions at All3Media-owned prodco Betty, London-based prodco Chalkboard TV and UK pubcaster the BBC.

Funding and partnerships will be overseen by Jamie Macken, previously co-MD of Irish marketing and advertising agency Core, while Jane Russell, founder of Outlaw Management, will join BiggerStage with a roster of talent.

Headquartered in Ireland, BiggerStage will open a UK office later this month and is currently in discussions with several US agencies to establish its presence in North America.

Kiely, CEO of BiggerStage, said: “Ireland can play a much bigger part in creating and producing world-class programming for the international market. Global demand for quality content has never been so high and BiggerStage will offer a unique approach, showcasing Ireland’s capabilities across TV production, format creation and talent development.”