The head of the UK broadcasting union is stepping down after almost a decade in post.
Philippa Childs, Bectu‘s first female boss, will exit at the start of next year. Her successor will be unveiled by Bectu’s parent union Prospect soon.
Childs has been running Bectu, which represents the interests of behind-the-camera workers across TV, film and theater, since 2018, overseeing 10,000 new subscribers and an expansion into areas like live events and fashion.
Childs has steered the union through seismic shifts in the industry including the Covid-19 pandemic, U.S. labor strikes and subsequent slowdown in commissioning. She has also been a leading voice in ending endemic bullying and harassment issues within the UK film and TV industry.
Prospect General Secretary Mike Clancy said he “hugely admires” Childs’ “tireless commitment to the creative industries and the wider trade union movement.”
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“From driving grassroots campaigns in workplaces up and down the country, to advocating for members at the highest levels of government – her passion and determination to secure a better deal for the country’s creative workforce means she can leave Bectu proud of the huge difference she has made,” he added. “Throughout her career Philippa has made a huge contribution to the trade union movement, and I know she will continue to make an impact whatever she turns to next. On behalf of our members we wish her all the best for the future.”
Childs added: “I am incredibly proud and honoured to have led Bectu throughout one of the most challenging periods for the creative industries in recent memory. Bectu members are at the heart of everything we do and it has been a real privilege to work with and for so many talented, passionate workers who really are the beating heart of our world-renowned creative industries.
“I want to thank my colleagues, Bectu reps, industry partners and the countless others I’ve worked with in this role for their collaboration and shared commitment to making work better in this unique and cherished sector.
“Of course, there is still lots more work to do to ensure everyone working in the creative industries can have a happy, healthy and sustainable career, no matter their background. I am sure my successor will continue this critical work.”
