A Teessider has “come home” from a 30-year stint in London to head up an established film company’s new northern office in the heart of Middlesbrough’s creative sector.
Creative film-makers Flathead have opened their north-east office in the town’s Boho Four after establishing an outstanding reputation for their commercial work across the UK over the past 10 years.
Independent production company Flathead have amassed an impressive list of clients, from the BBC to ITV and Sky Sports, from Orange and Virgin to Team GB, while one of their highlights was producing, directing and editing ITV’s Big Fish Off and Fishing All-stars, along with trailers and promos.
Having established their reputation from their base in Kent, Flathead’s new north-east office is being led by marketing manager and producer Julie Burniston.
Middlesbrough-born Julie is a former journalist who began her career at Wilton, near Redcar, as part of former chemical giant ICI’s internal communications team before working as a freelance writer for national tabloids and magazine editor.
Julie said: “I’ve enjoyed a fascinating career in the media down south but my heart has always been firmly in the North-East, so I’m proud as punch to be heading up Flathead’s northern office.
“Flathead is a vibrant independent production company and we know all about the importance of video content. We’re bursting with ideas to help North-East firms shout about their abilities, successes, services and products.
Adam Baxter, Flathead’s creative director, added: “The people on Teesside are friendly, passionate and incredibly talented. It’s very exciting to be able to share experiences – and, although Julie is in charge of Flathead North, I will certainly be involved in any projects she secures.”
To kick-off their new focus on the North-East, they recently shot a short film for Teesside Philanthropic Foundation on their sellout Annual Ball at Wynyard Hall, an event that raised £78,000 for disadvantaged local families.
“It was the company’s first northern commission and a fantastic one at that!” said Julie. “It was an incredible introduction to the area for Flathead and we’ve had lots of fantastic feedback.
“In fact, it’s already led to some fantastic leads that we’re hopeful will result in us producing films for a number of successful Teesside companies. It’s all happening very quickly for us.
“We’re firm believers in giving back to the area so we’ll always endeavour to embrace local talent. Flathead used a local crew member when we filmed for the Philanthropic Foundation and we’ll certainly use him again for further commissions.”
