The majority of programmes - the core output - are long-running strands which are produced either by Radio 2 producers or a small group of Independent companies. When the strands produced by Independents come up for renewal they are put out for tender using the process described below.

Commissioning rounds take place twice a year to complement the core output. It is within these rounds that ideas are sought for a wide range of documentaries, specialist music, comedy, event and other programming. Readings are commissioned alongside special events or seasons.

Independent companies and producers wishing to offer ideas to the network can register with Julian Grundy to receive commissioning round information. All registered suppliers receive copies of the guidelines for each commissioning round, held in spring and summer/early autumn. For each commissioning round, the network issues guidelines for prospective producers / production companies, which outline the available slots, editorial aspirations and guide prices.

The commissioning process involves submission of proposals via Proteus. Proposals should include a short synopsis paragraph followed by a more detailed explanation of the idea and treatment being proposed. After the closing date there will be a shortlisting period where producers may be asked to discuss their idea further. Once the shortlisting period is complete and offers have been discussed, proposals will either be conditionally commissioned or rejected. Budgets will then be agreed.

We would encourage you to talk to the network - Robert Gallacher (Editor, Planning & Station Sound) - about your proposals before you formally submit them. This will enable you to focus your ideas better within the context of schedule/slot availability. And, please contact Julian Grundy (Manager, Scheduling & Commissioning) with any questions you may have regarding the processes, commissioning or the schedule.

Additional Information

It is vital that all programmes comply with the relevant statutory and regulatory provisions. If you have a programme compliance issue and are not sure if it falls in the realms of editorial policy, programme legal advice, business affairs or elsewhere please contact Susan Binney (Head of Compliance Audio & Music). You can find further information on the Compliance page of this website.

Full information useful to prospective programme-makers (including information on underlying Rights, contractual and legal aspects of commissioning, Health & Safety requirements and the BBC's complaints procedure) are set out on the A&M Business Affairs page of this website and it is advisable to look this over before submitting a proposal.

Budgets for independent companies who receive conditional commissions are negotiated with the Radio Independents Production Team. The Radio Independent Productions team support all of the BBC's national radio stations in financial activities associated with contracting Independent productions.

Dates for 2009/10 Programming

The Commissioning Brief for 2010/11 Round 1 is now available.

Dates for 2010/11 Programming

Roles

• All commissions are signed off by Bob Shennan, Controller Radio 2.
• Lewis Carnie, Head of Programmes, is responsible for programme commissioning and new talent presented to the network.
• Robert Gallacher, Editor, Planning & Station Sound, is responsible for programme commissioning and overall network planning.
• Julian Grundy, Manager, Scheduling & Commissioning, is responsible for Proteus and the overall commissioning process.

Getting In Touch

Initial enquiries should be directed to:

Robert Gallacher, Editor, Planning & Station Sound
Phone: (020) 7765 4373
Email: robert.gallacher@bbc.co.uk

Julian Grundy, Manager, Commissions & Schedules
Phone: (020) 7765 3250
Email: julian.grundy@bbc.co.uk

Page last updated 15 July 2009