James Townley is Banijay Entertainment’s Chief Content Officer, Development, responsible for driving the development and creation of original non-scripted IP, format acquisition and documentaries across the 23-territory group and its production entities. Co-leading Creative Networks, he supports and champions a strong pipeline of new formats with international appeal. He also manages group level investment in non-scripted, including the Banijay Creative Fund, internal creative incentivisation and pilot schemes, plus development for new platforms.  

Previously, Townley was Global Head of Creative Networks at Endemol Shine Group following his role as Endemol Shine UK’s Director of Operations. He has also held roles at Princess Productions and Sky.