Director, Development

Job Description

Director, Development (Disney Entertainment Television)

Disney+ is seeking an experienced, innovative, and highly collaborative Director of Development to lead the development, oversight, and execution of our Canadian content strategy. This leadership role will serve as a key commissioner for original Canadian productions, overseeing a growing slate of scripted and unscripted series with a strong focus on cultural authenticity, creative excellence, and regulatory compliance.
The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of the Canadian production landscape, a strong network within the creative community, and a proven ability to guide projects from concept through delivery.

Key Responsibilities
• Serve as lead commissioner for Disney+ Canadian original content, with a focus on scripted and premium unscripted series.
• Provide end-to-end creative oversight on projects, including development, greenlight, production, post-production, and delivery.
• Maintain a consistent bi-weekly cadence of collaboration with the global Disney+ creative team (JW Originals), ensuring alignment with international standards and brand expectations.
• Act as the primary liaison with Canadian production partners, funding bodies (e.g., CMF, Telefilm), and regulatory stakeholders.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Programming, Marketing, PR, Franchise, Legal, and Business Affairs to support the strategic rollout and promotion of titles.
• Stay informed on industry trends, market shifts, and regulatory developments affecting the Canadian media and streaming landscape.
• Represent Disney+ at festivals, industry events, and pitch forums, serving as a visible ambassador for the company's Canadian strategy.
• Track and evaluate performance of Canadian originals, sharing key insights with stakeholders to inform future development and acquisitions.
Qualifications
• Minimum 8 years of experience in scripted content development, production, or commissioning-preferably within a Canadian or international streaming/broadcast environment.
• Strong creative sensibility and editorial judgment, with a portfolio of successful projects brought to market.
• Deep understanding of the Canadian content ecosystem, including experience navigating funding, regulatory frameworks, and partnerships.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, both internally and externally.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for storytelling and a commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive creative voices.
• Bilingualism (English/French) is an asset but not required.
Our Company proudly provides equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants. We welcome and encourage applications from persons with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in any aspect of the selection process.
About Disney Entertainment Television:
Disney Entertainment Television is a collection of renowned content brands at The Walt Disney Company creating original entertainment and news programming for the company's streaming platforms Disney+, Hulu and Star, and its broadcast and cable networks. Its extensive portfolio is comprised of ABC Entertainment, ABC News, ABC Owned Television Stations, Disney Branded Television, Freeform, FX, Hulu Originals, National Geographic Content and Onyx Collective, in addition to Disney Television Studios, which include 20th Television, 20th Television Animation, ABC Signature and Walt Disney Television Alternative. Responsible for over 4,500 hours of programming a year across more than 300 programs of all genres, Disney Entertainment Television's creative brands are at the forefront of groundbreaking storytelling, captivating audiences and generating critical acclaim. In 2023, Disney Entertainment Television's programming excellence earned 163 Emmy® nominations across daytime, primetime, news & documentary, and children's & family categories.

This position is with The Walt Disney Company (Canada) Ltd., which is part of a business we call Disney Entertainment Television.

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-vew6k0-216-73-216-202-42 in your application.