Discovery poaches Nat Geo’s Sayer

Discovery Networks International has poached factual production veteran Ed Sayer to join Phil Craig’s new look content team.

Sayer will be VP, production and development, factual, reporting to DNI executive VP and chief creative officer Craig, who has been looking to define a new style of high-end factual programming dubbed ‘new chip’ since joining from the ABC last year.

“We’re facing the future with great confidence, commissioning some compelling new content and developing a strategy across a wide range of factual genes that will both engage current audiences and reach out to new viewers,” said Craig.

“Ed will bring a fresh voice, unique vision and unbridled energy to commissioning content that resonates around the globe.”

Sayers was mostly recently VP, commissioning at Hamish Mykura’s UK-based Nat Geo Channels International programming team, having joined in 2012 from ITV Studios. While at Nat Geo, he commissioned and executive produced shows such as Science of Stupid, Ultimate Airport Dubai and Air Crash Investigation.

He has more than 20 years of experience in factual programming overall, also counting a period at UK pubcaster the BBC, where he was head of entertainment development at BBC Scotland, on his CV.

“Discovery’s brand is iconic, and it’s with a healthy dose of humility and excitement I join the team that’s behind many amazing television milestones,” added Sayer. “I’m looking forward to partnering with Phil Craig and Discovery’s worldwide and world-class producers to make noise and great television.”