GNM will be embracing a new approach to its video output in the coming months in order to cater to the ever-changing needs of its audience, say the publishers.
Reporting to the Guardian’s Executive Editor (Multimedia), Merope Mills, Phillips will be responsible for initiating and overseeing the Guardian’s acquisition and production of international documentaries of all lengths and genres.
Phillips will join the Guardian from Sheffield Doc/Fest, where he has worked for seven years and is currently Deputy Director.
Speaking about his appointment, Phillips said: “With its leading reputation for innovation, the Guardian is the perfect media organisation to be exploring a new model for documentary making while ensuring that this new approach continues to inform its audiences in an intelligent and accessible way.
“It’s been an amazing seven years at Sheffield Doc/Fest, and whilst I’m sad to leave such a special organisation, their support for innovation and developing talented documentary-makers for which they’re renowned is something I’ll be strongly committed to at the Guardian. I’m very much looking forward to talking to filmmakers and documentary funders in the near future as we begin this fascinating new chapter.”
Merope Mills said: “This is an exciting time for video at the Guardian as we explore new ways to showcase our journalism to our growing global audience. Video presents huge opportunities for media organisations to create compelling and engaging ways of telling stories. The range of formats, platforms, and different ways to bringing stories to life through video is incredible.
“Our new approach to documentary-making will be just one way that we will be increasing our video - and audio - output in the coming months, and it’s fantastic to have Charlie on board to lead this project.”
Phillips begins the new role on 20 October.
