Charlotte
How did you get into the BBC?
I applied to join the Vision Intake Pool online, attended the interview process, and found out that I was accepted into the pool. I was then placed in a PMA role within Multi-platform Productions.
What is the best thing about working as a runner/PMA?
The job is very varied, and you get to learn a lot of different skills.
What is the worst thing about working as a runner PMA?
The worst thing about being a PMA is probably trying to deal with conflicting workloads…you will often get a lot of requests at the same time, and have to be very good at multi-tasking and prioritising in order to deal with everything.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the BBC?
Don’t give up if your application gets rejected…I applied for loads of schemes and placements before being invited in to interview for the Vision Intake Pool. It’s also helpful to take on a lot of work experience, both within programme making, but also within an office environment, as you spend a lot more time in front of a computer than you would expect, and it’s good to be prepared!
What qualities do you think are essential to be a good runner/PMA?
I think you have to be extremely well organised, good at multi-tasking and be willing to take on the most mundane tasks with enthusiasm. I think you need to be confident, as you will meet and work with a lot of different people, and making contacts and networking with people will always be useful in helping your career later on.
What are you currently doing now and describe a typical day?
Currently I am working as PMA for both the Products team and the Navigation and Services team within Multi-platform Productions. On a typical day, I would deal with anything from booking meeting rooms and equipment for the team, organising travel and accommodation, and meeting and greeting guests that are coming in to help test websites. I would assist the different teams in various ways, whether it is gathering statistics, uploading content onto programme pages, or simply managing diaries.
Where do you see your next role?
Hopefully I would move more into an editorial/creative role.
