Pact CEO John McVay to step down

Pact is now searching for a new CEO to replace McVay, who will continue to be employed by the organisation until the end of 2025 or beginning of 2026, depending on how the recruitment and handover process progresses.

A working group has been established to oversee the succession plans.

McVay will undertake a handover to the new CEO, and will also be retained for a further period to give strategic advice. He will also lead in the short to medium term on all of Pact’s political and campaigning work. These timings are to be confirmed.

The working group has contracted executive search firm Quicksmith to support the recruitment process.

McVay has led a number of successful political lobbying campaigns during his time at Pact, including the implementation of the Terms of Trade, a key part of the Communications Act 2003 which enabled independent production companies to retain their IP for the first time. This saw the industry grow from a cottage industry to a £3.6bn success story. McVay has defended the Terms of Trade against potential amendment or removal on many occasions over the 25 years.

McVay was also instrumental in campaigning for the introduction and subsequent increases in the Tax Credits for the Children’s, HETV and Film sectors, as well as the Production Restart Scheme which enabled production companies to get back to work during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Pact Chair and CEO of Raise The Roof Productions, Jane Muirhead, said: “After 25 fantastic years at the helm of Pact, the time has come for John to take a step back and for us to begin the search for his replacement.

“The shoes will be tough to fill, but we are confident that the process will find the right person, and that a smooth transition will take place to ensure that members continue to receive the exceptional standard of service they have received over the past 25 years.”