Zillah Watson
Media, content and innovation consultant, speaker, lecturer
I’m an Emmy-nominated creative leader working at the cutting edge of technology developing new forms of content, new ways of working and future business and distribution models.
I’ve devised and launched TV, radio, podcasts, websites, apps, immersive, conferences and events - you name it, I’ve done it. I’ve brought together brilliant multi-disciplinary teams and developed the partnerships necessary to deliver complex creative projects. Working across news, technology, entertainment, education and the arts, I’m able to connect different worlds and keep my eye on the bigger picture.
My career at the BBC started in TV and radio journalism. This was a vibrant and varied journalistic adventure, where, as a senior creative leader and strategist, telling compelling stories led me to opportunities including Head of Editorial Standards for BBC Radio 4.
Contributing to the future of storytelling was, and still is, important to me so I moved within the BBC to lead a content innovation team, shaping research on the behavioural impact of VR storytelling with UCL and publishing what is now a much-cited paper (Virtual Reality for News) while a visiting fellow at Oxford University's Reuters Institute through to leading the BBC's pioneering VR Studio.
Today, I am one of the leading experts, commissioners, creators, and producers of public facing VR and AR in the UK. I consult for organisations including London & Partners, the BBC, the BFI, the Arts Council England, and the Royal Shakespeare Company, advising on content and audience growth strategy, digital transformation and communications marketing.
Knowledge sharing and empowering others is an important part of my identity. I teach a course on VR ethics at UCL, as well as being the lead tutor on UCL’s radio documentary and podcasting course.
Recent keynote speaker opportunities including International News Media Association, Royal College of Psychiatrist’s Annual Convention, Edinburgh International Television Festival, and Museum Next have allowed me to connect, share and inspire others to carry out more work in this space.
With the collective impact of the pandemic, I set up Phase Space, a female led innovative studio focused on using technology for good, to improve mental health, sustainability, and education.
Whichever hat I am wearing, I make sure I deliver practical outcomes that make an impact and contribute to an organisation’s success. But don’t just take my word for it, have a look at what others say and. the press coverage of my work, or visit my awards and publications section.
What People Are Saying
“Zillah has a rare combination of expertise that encompasses extensive creative editorial experience, technical understanding, strategic thinking and commercial awareness. She is super-intelligent with a wide intellectual hinterland, is highly collaborative yet delivery-oriented, and can both lead and work in a multidisciplinary team. She's also a just a great colleague to have around.”
— James Montgomery, Executive Digital Director, BBC News and World Service
“I am particularly impressed with Zillah’s ability to drive creative content development, provide strong editorial leadership, and successfully develop business relationships while navigating complex legal issues. A combination of these skills, coupled with Zillah’s ability to work well with people, is a real asset to any organisation.”
— William Hayes, Senior Legal and Commercial Manager
“Zillah is a true leader. Her creative vision, editorial insight and astonishing knowledge of the VR technology and industry have resulted in numerous awards and worldwide recognition. As a member of her team you always feel listened too, valued and respected, this largely comes from her ability to build a team that of experts that complements and enhances her own knowledge, and amplifies her vision. Each time I have worked with Zillah I have left knowing more than when I started; she pushes me to take on tasks she knows I'm capable of and in doing so, has built my skills and confidence.”