ABOUT

A go-to factual TV consultancy, offering tailored advice to enhance every aspect of your project.

From early-stage TV development and pitch decks to episode breakdowns, securing funding, and network strategy, I can help you transform a top line idea into a deck a commissioner will love.

KIRSTY CALVERT-ANSARI

WHAT I DO

A seasoned expert in the industry, with hundreds of hours of commissions across over 20 channels, working at some of the top production companies, I know what commissioners want and what sells.

I provide factual TV development support for producers at all stages of the writing and development process.

I work with clients to develop original TV documentaries and formats for broadcasters, streamers, and festivals.

My services include:

  • Reviewing and guidance of development materials – including decks, episode breakdowns, and sizzles. Ensuring all documents are ready for pitch and represent the project in the best way

  • Refine and shape raw ideas into structured TV formats

  • Align the idea with network and specific commissioner needs

  • Discuss alternate funding options

  • Coach you through the pitch process or deliver it on your behalf

  • Also available to write and design decks or turn a topline idea into a fully fledged series

ABOUT ME

An innovative and impactful senior executive with 20+ years in the UK factual independent broadcasting sector.

Creating, developing and producing hundreds of hours of programmes across multiple unscripted genres which have sold internationally.

Extensive working knowledge of the TV industry with a wide range of contacts and relationships.

A strong track record of bringing innovative ideas to fruition, pitching to linear channels, and the SVODS including Discovery Max, Apple, Netflix, Amazon, A&E Network, Paramount Plus, and Magnolia.

Extremely experienced at writing and creating decks, and winning premium content commissions with global appeal. I understand how to present an idea to get a commissioner’s attention, and how to get an idea over the line to greenlight.

Recognised in the industry for excellent networking, communication, interpersonal skills and working with integrity. 

Worked in both production and development for a range of leading companies, including BBC, ITV, Firecracker films, Wall to Wall, RDF, Voltage, and Love Productions.

SERVICES

Initial 30 minute 1-1 introduction session


This is your first step in the process. This meeting will take place via phone, or online.

You tell or send me what your needs are. This can include your idea(s) for a TV programme, the loglines for an idea you have already written, a book you’ve optioned, some access/ talent you have, or a format idea you are developing. (I am happy to sign a NDA if you’d prefer).

Based on the concept(s), I will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the idea(s) with you, and I will give you my opinion on your project(s) and next steps to move it forward.

We can alternatively use this session to discuss specific questions you may need guidance with. Such as alternate funding options, how to align the idea with network and specific commissioner needs, how to develop or attach talent to an idea, how best to present the proposal, how the pitch process works, or even offer help with an editorial decision you’re at a crossroads with.

£30 /30mins session

Pitch documents - review and edit

This service is to specifically guide you with your pitch documents. To ensure all documents represent your project in the best way.

From the punchy topline hook, to a catchy title, and killer poster image.

I will read and analyse your proposal/ and or sizzle, and then we will have a 45 minute call to discuss notes.

This guidance will include suggestions and tools to revise and elevate your concept, strengthen your proposal structure, clarify format points and headings, improve presentation of images and layout of the proposal, discuss talent thoughts (if needed), and offer budget guidance for particular channels and slots.

This may take more than one session if we need to review a rewrite or redesign.

£100/45mins session

Short contracts or funded development

If you have received funded development, or are looking for someone on a short term contract to work up an idea and write the proposal for you, then I can help.

You may need a safe pair of hands to secure access, do detailed research to stand up an idea, or develop the topline into a fully-fledged series. I can take your idea and turn it into a multi- page deck, containing everything from episode breakdowns, to suggested talent.

Rate - project dependent

Testimonials

"Kirsty has an uncanny ability to take even the roughest concept and elevate it into a razor-sharp, persuasive pitch. With decades of industry experience she stays remarkably ahead of the curve and her grasp of emerging trends and storytelling is unrivalled, making her an invaluable creative force you can trust without hesitation."

Virginia Baker, Producer

I had the pleasure of working with Kirsty during the development of my feature documentary, and I felt completely in safe hands. She brings a wealth of experience to everything she does, the clarity of her thinking helped inspire me to hone my idea. Kirsty is a talented writer and an insightful strategist, with a deep understanding of the television industry. Her consultancy service is a gift to anyone working in TV — smart, supportive, and seriously effective.

Sandra Martin, Producer/Director

Kirsty is brilliant at honing ideas and storytelling, and then working out great ways to package up and pitch these ideas to the right people and places. She's a fantastic sounding-board and very generous with her time and skills.  

Jo Woolf, freelance Exec

‘‘Kirsty was an incredible support in the development phase of my documentary project. Her  in-depth overview of the industry helped me understand what elements of my project would appeal most to commissioners and who I could approach. Kirsty's encouragement gave me the confidence boost and tools I needed to overcome barriers, consider alternative funding routes and forge ahead with my project.’’

Cecile Embleton, Award winning Director

Kirsty is a powerhouse of TV development, so when we were gathering materials for a premium documentary, we wanted her to consult for us. She knows what the commissioners want and what sells. She helped us see the best way to sell our project, and the various options we had. It was utterly invaulable advice.

Elena Mourey, Producer/ Director

  • Over 20 years experience in factual TV

    In both development and production

  • 100's of hours of programming

    For linear channels and SVODS

  • Bafta, RTS, & Grierson awards jury

    Screenskills mentor and speaker at Bafta Guru and the Media Production & Technology Show

Get in Touch!