TV Development Strategy
From a Former BBC & UKTV Network Exec

Your project is good.
The problem is the room.

Development Strategy by former BBC and UKTV scripted development exec.
I help writers and producers understand what network executives look for and position their work to move.


Ready To Leap forward via my 60min 1:1 Strategy Session ?

👉 GET STARTED HERE👈

Most writers who come to me have genuine talent.

That is never the issue.

What is missing is market intelligence. An understanding of how broadcaster execs assess risk. Why certain projects feel commercially viable and others do not. What development language actually means when executives use it. How to position your work for the right buyer at the right moment.

Nobody teaches this. It lives in the rooms you have not been invited into yet.

Until now.

I am Sarah Asante. Development strategist and former network exec.

For ten years I made scripted development decisions at the BBC and UKTV. I sat across from hundreds of writers, evaluated thousands of pitches, and greenlit projects including BAFTA-winning Famalam and the pilot of Dreaming Whilst Black, later picked up internationally by A24 and Showtime.

I am a BAFTA mentor and BFI mentor. I have produced sessions at the Edinburgh TV Festival since 2022, including the first Fellowship awarded to Shonda Rhimes in 2025.

I also know what it feels like to be on the outside. I built my career without the expected connections or background.

If I could decode the unwritten rules, so can you.

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Looking for my Community for writers?

WHAT CLIENTS HAVE SAID...

"Sarah's discovery session was by far the most informative and worthwhile investment I've made in ages...maybe ever? Her knowledge of the industry and ability to grasp a script and what can make it work better in a very short space of time is like none I've ever seen before. Don't sleep on this opportunity! Thank you, Sarah 🙏"
Hannah P - writer, London

"Sarah is an incredibly phenomenal commissioning executive. What’s even more impressive is her passion for supporting emerging writers and creators in the TV and film industry. I was thoroughly impressed by her knowledge during a Zoom call organised for a small group of emerging writers from diverse backgrounds. I later followed up with a one-to-one meeting, which proved invaluable in developing the pilot episode of my TV show. Sarah’s advice was detailed, meticulous, and highly insightful. I felt fortunate to spend time with such a knowledgeable industry professional".
Ola CO - Writer, Founder & CEO of LEVILE

"I very much appreciated the tips, insight and resources that Sarah shared with me. Our time together boosted my confidence and has helped me set a better course for my development and eventual commissions. Importantly, the support I received was delivered with friendliness and warmth. Demystifying the industry doesn't have to be painful!!"
Warmest, Tega O - freelance writer

"I had a great introductory session with Sarah. We had about 40 minutes together, and in that time we got right to the heart of my story. She challenged me on what I was trying to say and how I intended to say it, in a very constructive way. Her feedback and perspective really helped me sharpen my idea and feel confident moving forward"
Best wishes, Darryl - BFI funded Writer/Filmmaker

"Sarah shared nuggets of wisdom that highlighted her extensive expertise in the industry in a succinct and direct manner. She was extremely generous with her time, suggesting a myriad of ways to approach the issues I had raised, and reminded me that taking care of one's mental health and mindset was of utmost importance. Sarah certainly does not mince words, which I really appreciated, and while very encouraging, she also won't sugar coat anything for you! I came away with clarity on some of the more traditional ways forward, as well as a more realistic view of the current state of our industry, where new writers are concerned. Have a lovely Friday"!
Sanaa - Freelance Copywriter/Translator

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