Ramsay format guru to take Wales TV firm global

A PIONEERING Welsh TV company is aiming to sell Welsh language programmes internationally after appointing an industry high-flyer to a key role.

- STAFF REPORTER

Olivia Simove, who has developed programmes for celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay and the Hairy Bikers, has joined employee-owned Cwmni Da in Caernarfon as its new content director.

The Cardiff-born TV executive, whose career has taken her from Disneyworld in Florida to working in London with top production firms, says her mission is to help Cwmni Da "spread its wings internationally while staying true to its Welsh roots".

The development specialist, who also developed Channel 4 formats like How to Lose Weight Well and Mend It For Money, as well as ITV's The Hard to Please OAPs, brings a track record of creating hit factual entertainment formats that travel.

She's also produced content for digital platforms, including two Channel 4 series of a cosmetic surgery format called Skin Deep, where people who've had extensive surgeries have to guess what each other have had done.

"Television is all about understanding what people think and what they want," she said. "My background in psychology has helped me shape ideas that connect with commissioners, contributors and audiences alike."

Having returned to Wales with her young family after almost two decades in London, Ms Simove said she was inspired by Cwmni Da's unique culture.