Line of Duty Maker World Productions Appoints New Development Chief and Executive Producer

ITV Studios-owned UK scripted prodco World Productions has announced two senior appointments, naming Kathryn Shrubb head of development and Joe Williams executive producer. The Line of Duty maker, which has offices in London, Glasgow and Cardiff, said the hires will bolster its editorial team as the company continues to produce bold drama projects for broadcasters and platforms. Shrubb takes up her new role following the departure of previous head of development Emma Luffingham, who has joined Pathe UK. She is charged with bringing a slate of ambitious and diverse projects to the screen. Shrubb will work alongside Laura Cotton and George Aza-Selinger, who oversee development in Wales and Scotland respectively. An experienced story producer, Shrubb has developed and managed scripted slates across several different prodcos, including Fulwell 73, Pure Fiction TV, Two Rivers Media and Tall Story Pictures, also part of ITV Studios. Most recently, she produced Bad Sisters 2 for Apple TV. While at the BBC, she script-edited and helped develop series such as Three Girls, Silent Witness and Luther. Williams, meanwhile, will work closely with the company’s leadership team, including Simon Heath, CEO and creative director, and Jake Lushington, director of drama. Prior to joining World Productions, he was an executive producer at ITV Studios, working on series like The Hack and Mr Bates vs the Post Office. Williams has also served as head of development at Vox Pictures, held development roles at Scott Free and Sprout Pictures, and worked as part of Channel 4’s drama commissioning team. Founded in 1990, World Productions’ upcoming projects include the seventh season of Line of Duty (BBC), The Party (ITV) and The Boys from Brazil (Netflix). Heath said: “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.” Shrubb 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.” Williams said: “World Productions has 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.”