World Productions Bolsters Team with New Head of Development and EP

ITV Studios’ World Productions (Vigil, Until I Kill You, Line of Duty) has announced two senior appointments to bolster its editorial team with Kathryn Shrubb joining as Head of Development and Joe Williams on board as EP. Kathryn Shrubb has developed and managed scripted slates across a number different production companies, including Fulwell 73, Pure Fiction TV, Two Rivers Media and Tall Story Pictures, also part of ITV Studios. Most recently, she story produced Bad Sisters 2 for Apple TV. While at the BBC, she script edited and helped develop award winning series such as Three Girls, Silent Witness, and Luther. Shrubb will take up the role following the departure of Emma Luffingham, who was named as yesterday as Pathé UK’s Creative Director, TV. Shrubb will play a central role in shaping an expanding slate, working closely with writers and creative partners to bring bold, original ideas onto screens. She will work alongside Laura Cotton and George Aza-Selinger, who oversee development for World Productions in Wales and Scotland respectively. Joe Williams also joins World Productions, as an Executive Producer, where he will work closely with the company’s leadership team including Simon Heath, CEO & Creative Director, and Jake Lushington, Director of Drama. Prior to joining World Productions, Williams was Executive Producer at ITV Studios, where he worked on The Hack and Mr Bates vs the Post Office, the most watched drama programme of 2024. He served as Head of Development at Vox Pictures, and has also held development roles at Scott Free, Sprout Pictures, and in Channel 4’s Drama Commissioning Team. He also helped develop the hit Netflix series Lupin, with George Kay. Simon Heath, CEO & Creative Director, World Productions, comments: “We’re delighted to welcome Kat and Joe to the World team. They bring with them great credits and reputations, and I can’t wait to see the shows they help to create over the coming years.” Kat Shrubb, new Head of Development, World Productions, said: “It’s such an honour to join the immensely talented team at World. I’m excited to have the opportunity to continue Emma and World’s amazing work in developing ambitious, must-watch stories for the screen.” Joe Williams, Executive Producer, World Productions, said: “World Productions have been behind some of my favourite dramas, so I’m thrilled to be joining the company. I’m looking forward to working with Simon, Kat and the fantastic team across new projects.” Founded in 1990, World Productions has offices in London, Glasgow and Cardiff. Their current and upcoming titles include Line of Duty 7 (BBC), Vigil 3 (BBC), The Party (ITV), The Boys From Brazil (Netflix), and Grams (BBC). Jon Creamer Share this story