Shola Russell
High Wycombe,,Buckinghamshire
Summary
Experienced senior broadcast and production operations professional specialising in large-scale live sport and high-profile events. Known for building strong, long-standing relationships with clients and stakeholders, I take pride in being approachable, dependable and easy to work with.
I foster positive, collaborative team environments that strengthen trust and deliver consistently high standards. With clear communication, strong attention to detail and a proactive, can-do attitude, I focus on creating positive working environments where clients feel supported and valued.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work history
Senior Project Planner / Production Manager
Gravity Media (formerly EMG)
2021.10 - 2026.02
- Senior operational lead across major broadcast contracts including Premier League Productions, FA Cup, Women’s Super League and Sky Cricket.
- Deliver a high volume of live fixtures per week across multiple concurrent contracts in fast-paced broadcast environments
- Act as the primary client-facing contact, building trusted, long-term relationships with stakeholders, rights holders and production partners
- Oversee complex OB logistics including trucks, power, connectivity, rigging and venue co-ordination
- Manage large crews, accreditation, call sheets and detailed operational planning
- Hold responsibility for budgets, forecasting, purchase and sales orders, invoicing and commercial reporting
- Support contract renewals and commercial growth through consistent delivery and strong client focus
Capital Projects Management
InHealth Group
2018.09 - 2021.04
- Assisted in managing capital expenditure to optimise financial resources.
- Supported business negotiations to secure favourable terms.
- Utilised CRM systems to enhance customer interactions.
- Contributed to cross-functional team efforts to achieve common goals.
- Participated in budgeting processes to ensure alignment with financial objectives.
PA and Office Management
Allied International Security
- Managed complex diaries, ensuring seamless executive schedules.
- Prioritised tasks for improved productivity.
- Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information by implementing strict file management systems.
- Increased operational efficiency through meticulous record keeping.
Education
A Levels in Media Studies, Psychology & English Literature
Skills
- Strong IT systems expertise across Smartsheet, Excel, PowerPoint, TeamTrack, Continia and Microsoft Business Central, supporting efficient workflow, reporting and financial processes
- Live broadcast operations
- Client and stakeholder management
- Multi-contract delivery
- Budget forecasting and cost control
- Crew management and logistics
- Supplier liaison and connectivity
- Stadium operations
- High-security event management
- Commercial awareness and contract support
Major Events & Career Highlights
- Lead On-Site Production Manager – Queen Elizabeth II’s Funeral, Windsor Castle
- Lead On-Site Production Manager – King Charles III’s Coronation, Westminster Abbey
- Broadcast Industry Rising Star Award – Shortlisted (2023), recognising emerging female talent
Timeline
Senior Project Planner / Production Manager
Gravity Media (formerly EMG)
2021.10 - 2026.02
Capital Projects Management
InHealth Group
2018.09 - 2021.04
PA and Office Management
Allied International Security
A Levels in Media Studies, Psychology & English Literature