In a year where the UK film and television industry faced turbulent upheavals, marked by layoffs and dwindling job security, a surprising report from talent agency recruiter Sumo reveals a growth trend that seems almost counterintuitive. Between February 2024 and February 2025, there was a reported increase of 13% in the workforce at UK management companies. While this statistic may initially evoke a sense of optimism, it gives rise to deeper questions about the sector’s sustainability and the underlying dynamics of employment within this volatile industry.
The stark contrast between the growth at smaller agencies versus the struggles of larger firms cannot be overstated. Small and medium-sized agencies reported a rise of around 16% to 17%, whereas larger, more established agencies only saw a modest increase of 2.3%. This disparity raises concerns about job stability and employee satisfaction, particularly given that the average tenure at smaller firms stands at a mere two years compared to four years at larger agencies. As someone who is invested in the livelihood of this sector, it’s hard not to view this growth with skepticism. The rapid churn in personnel at these smaller firms could signify a precarious working environment, where talent is easily acquired but not effectively retained.
Restructuring and Turnover: An Industry in Distress
According to Sumo’s report, larger agencies are grappling with internal restructuring efforts that lead to a reported six-month contraction. This presents a troubling scenario. For employees seeking stability, the larger agencies that have historically provided long-term career paths are now facing their own existential challenges. With nearly half of broadcasting union Bectu’s survey respondents actively out of work and 38% contemplating leaving the industry altogether, it’s clear that what appears to be growth on the surface is more akin to a shifting landscape of labor that is riddled with anxiety.
What’s particularly notable is the differential growth in specialized areas, such as the rise of digital agents, which showcased a significant staff increase of approximately 15%. This figure highlights an urgent transition in the industry—alluding to a new paradigm that is increasingly reliant on digital content. However, as this segment thrives, scripted agencies maintain a slower growth trajectory yet manage much stronger stability, with longer employee tenures stretching to an impressive six years. The juxtaposition between these two areas feels like an impending crisis for traditional formats, as burgeoning sectors attract talent while older genres fade into obsolescence.
Retention Challenges in a Shifting Job Market
The fundamental challenge that must be addressed by small-to-medium agencies is not only attracting talent but also retaining it. Sumo’s recommendation for these firms to develop retention strategies highlights a broader issue at play: the unpredictable nature of the creative economy. While the lure of fast-paced, cutting-edge projects may initially attract employees, the lack of stability can ultimately undermine growth potential.
So, where does this leave us? The sector cannot rely on a cycle of constant recruitment as a sustainable model for success. Agencies need to prioritize employee engagement, invest in career development, and create inclusive workplace cultures that foster long-term investment from their staff. As traditional media continues to grapple with shifting consumer behaviors and preferences, it is the agents—the often unsung architects of creativity—who will determine the future of this evolving industry.
In the face of layoffs and mass job insecurity, it is crucial to recognize that growth cannot be viewed in isolation. The future of UK film and TV rests on whether it can adapt, retain talent, and sustain a healthy workplace culture amid an uncertain horizon.
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