Birmingham-based indie Acclaimed Content has appointed Kieran McCarthy to the newly created role of director of development, as it looks to accelerate growth across digital, broadcast and branded content.
McCarthy joins from Kalel Productions, where he served as creative director of development, overseeing unscripted formats across linear and online. Recent credits include Will AI Take My Job?, billed as the first show to feature an AI host.
At Acclaimed, McCarthy will lead a multi-platform development strategy spanning original IP, digital-first formats and branded entertainment, reporting to founders Anton Inwood and Ché Chumber. The appointment comes as UK producers increasingly pursue platform-agnostic strategies, balancing traditional commissions with digital-first output and advertiser-funded programming.
Inwood said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Kieran to the team. His track record in creating standout formats and expertise across broadcast and digital make him the perfect person to drive our next phase of growth. His appointment will supercharge our creative leadership as we build bold, distinctive factual formats and attention-grabbing series that connect with audiences across broadcast, streaming and social platforms.”
McCarthy added: “I’m a huge fan of what Anton and Ché have achieved so far, building a truly forward-thinking and creative production studio proudly based in the regions. With some impressive wins already under their belt – I can’t wait to get stuck in and bring my format pedigree to one of the most exciting young indies out there in the UK, as we boldly tackle an exciting new era for UK content.”
Acclaimed has generated more than 20 million views across its content to date, with a slate spanning broadcast, streaming and social. Recent projects include Untold: Undercover Working Holidays: Stranded in Paradise, fronted by Tir Dhondy, and the Sainsbury’s-backed Chris Ramsey’s Alternative Christmas Guide.
The company has also delivered digital-first commissions for Channel 4.0, including Family Face-Off and Alone-ish with Nella Rose, alongside Queen of Trucks.
Acclaimed has also develops branded content with creators such as Niko Omilana, Aitch and Chunkz, partnering with brands including JD Sports and Sainsbury’s as it looks to scale its commercial storytelling alongside editorial output.
