Screen Yorkshire has appointed Andrew Sheldon as Chair, alongside the addition of Wayne Davidson to its Board, as the organisation strengthens its leadership to respond to ongoing shifts across the screen industries.
Andrew Sheldon brings more than three decades of experience in the Yorkshire television sector, spanning programme-making and independent production. He is co-founder of Leeds-based factual producer True North, one of the largest factual indies outside London, and played a key role in securing Channel 4’s National HQ for Leeds in 2018, a landmark moment in the UK’s regional broadcast strategy.
Sheldon succeeds John Surtees, who steps down after fourteen years as Chair, having offered longstanding, stable leadership and a strong foundation for the organisation’s continued growth.
Wayne Davidson joins from Little Dot Studios, where he is Chief Revenue Officer. His experience spans digital-first content strategy, platform growth and audience monetisation, with a focus on how content is distributed and consumed across evolving global ecosystems.
Caroline Cooper Charles, Chief Executive of Screen Yorkshire, said: “These appointments come at a pivotal time for the screen sector. Andrew’s experience across production and regional industry development, combined with Wayne’s expertise in digital strategy and platform-led growth, will be instrumental as we continue to adapt to rapid shifts in how screen media is financed, produced and distributed.
“As new technologies, changing audience behaviours and global market dynamics reshape the industry, it’s critical that we remain agile. Strengthening our board in this way ensures we are well positioned to support producers and talent across the region, while also future proofing the organisation for the next phase of industry change.
“All our thanks go to John Surtees for his outstanding contribution during his time as Chair, leading us to the strong position we find ourselves in now.”
With these appointments, Screen Yorkshire is reinforcing its strategic leadership as it continues to drive inward investment, support production, talent and workforce development.
