Sonny Hanley is a director at ITV Academy, an initiative launched by the broadcaster in 2023 to address current and future skills gaps.
Hanley’s career at ITV has spanned over 20 years, with roles varying from production, technology to operations and content services. He first started his career within the factual entertainment department in Leeds, working on shows for ITV, Channel 4 and others.
He is also the chair for ITV Embrace, ITV’s internal network for Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic colleagues, and sits on the board of the Northern Ballet Company as a non-executive director.
From the biggest job challenges to vital career skills, he shares his career journey and words of advice…
How did you first get into your industry?
Like most people in the industry, I started off as a runner, and my first paid job was on a Channel 4 Schools drama back in 2001, straight after I graduated from university. From there, I was successful enough to get a traineeship as a production coordinator at ITV, and the rest, as they say, is history!
What do you love about your job?
I’ve had such a long and varied career at ITV, starting in production, moving into operations, and then spending six years in technology before transitioning to content operations, and eventually launching and running the ITV Academy.
I’ve loved every role I’ve taken on, and each one has given me incredible experiences and skills that I’ve carried into the next. But what I love most in my current role is helping new entrants break into the industry. One of the first roles we introduced at the ITV Academy was a trainee production coordinator, which was exactly 20 years after I held that same position — it was a meaningful full-circle moment for me.
Who – or what – has inspired you in your career?
I’ve always been inspired by creative people — those who can turn an idea on a piece of paper into a TV show I might be watching six months later. The talent in this industry is incredible, and it makes coming to work every day a true joy. I also remember, as a young black kid in a predominantly white world, seeing Lenny Henry on TV for the first time. Watching him work hard and achieve success was inspiring, and I remember thinking, ‘I want to be just like him.’
What are the biggest challenges about your job?
The industry is currently facing significant challenges, and the ITV Academy is no exception. However, I am dedicated to creating opportunities for new entrants, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. At the same time, it’s crucial that we provide our talented production staff with the training and development they need to thrive in their roles and achieve excellence. Together, we can navigate these challenges and continue to foster a diverse and skilled workforce in the industry.
What skills have been the most crucial to you succeeding in your career so far?
I think the most crucial skill for me is the ability to communicate with people at all levels within the organisation, from the boardroom to the studio floor, and from partner training organisations to schools and colleges. I’ve always had a passion for the world of TV, and therefore I have never been afraid of hard work because it’s never felt like hard work — I’ve loved what I do. My interest in TV covers all parts of the industry, which is why I have moved around different business areas a lot in my career; I’m just so interested in what everybody does, which has given me a wide breadth of knowledge in this industry. And that is very valuable.
What was your first salary and what could someone getting into the industry expect to earn nowadays?
My first salary was £100 a week as a runner, which was quite low even at the time, but I took the job because I loved it, not for the money. Nowadays, most employers tend to offer a standard living wage for entry-level roles. I would encourage anyone not to let pay stand in the way of an opportunity. Even if you have to do a day here and there for free, it all counts towards building your CV and your network. And that is the real currency in this industry.
What education or training would be most useful for someone looking to follow your career path?
My career pathway is quite unique, and there isn’t a secret formula for education and training to reach where I am. I would say that if you want to start a career in this industry, you don’t necessarily need to attend university or further education college; you just need to demonstrate a passion for what you do and be willing to work hard. You can train on the job, and your skills and experience will develop over time.
What advice would you have for someone looking to follow your path?
If you’re at the start of your career, or even if you’re in the middle and looking to progress, I encourage you to talk to as many people as possible and be curious about what they do. I’ve mentioned before that passion and hard work are essential, but you also need support from others. No one has ever made it in this industry on their own, so surround yourself with good people, build a strong network, and consider finding a mentor. With hard work, passion, and the right support, you will find success!
