Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Productions appoints COO

Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Productions has named Oliver Lang as chief operating officer.

Based in the Medici: Masters of Florence producer’s London offices, the exec will oversee the company’s operations, strategic partnerships and financing for drama projects.

Earlier this year, Lang founded consultancy group Sharp Edge Media to provide commercial and strategic advice to the TV industry. He will continue as MD of the business.

The exec previously served as controller of content investment at BBC Studios Distribution, overseeing investment into such programs as Blue Planet II, Sherlock and Strictly Come Dancing.

He also managed investment in the production sector, including Lookout Point, Baby Cow, Clerkenwell Films and 72 Films.

He previously held senior positions at the BBC, UKTV and Carlton Television.

Spotnitz founded the London and Paris-based Big Light Productions in 2013 to create and oversee a diverse slate of TV, including drama, comedy and documentaries.

The slate includes The Man in the High Castle, now in its fourth season; Ransom, now in its third season for CBS and Global; Medici: Masters of Florence and two seasons of Medici: The Magnificent, both for Rai and Netflix, as well as The Indian Detective for Netflix.

Spotnitz’s additional credits include The X-Files and Strike Back.

Spotnitz said: “Oliver possesses a wealth of experience, incredible strategic know-how and deeply held relationships in the industry. He’s a huge asset, and I’m thrilled he’s putting his strengths to work for Big Light.”