Two of the UK’s most influential scripted executives are charting separate paths, with Juliette Howell set to depart House Productions, the company she co-founded a decade ago, to become CEO of Lookout Point. The move marks a significant leadership change across BBC Studios-backed production labels.
Howell will transition her personal development slate from House to Lookout Point, integrating those projects into the drama company’s growing portfolio. Her appointment brings a new figurehead to Lookout Point following the departures last year of former co-CEOs Laura Lankester and Will Johnston, who joined A24. Louise Mutter will continue in her role as managing director.
House Productions will now be led solely by Tessa Ross, former Film4 boss, who will continue as CEO. The company’s recent and upcoming work includes Oscar winner Conclave, BAFTA-winning series Sherwood, Emmy-nominated Brexit: The Uncivil War, A24 collaboration The Iron Claw, The Good Mothers, Life After Life, and the forthcoming Emma Laird-led drama Mint. A third season of Sherwood is also in the pipeline, and the company is expected to bring in a senior executive to oversee its television operations.
Ross and Howell launched House Productions in 2016, running the company as co-CEOs with backing from BBC and Access Entertainment. The duo last spoke publicly about their slate in 2024, underlining the company’s position as a key player in premium UK and international drama.
Lookout Point, meanwhile, has built a strong reputation through series such as Happy Valley, Gentleman Jack, Ripper Street, War & Peace, and the recent reboot of Tummy & Tuppence. Its upcoming slate includes a high-profile Pride and Prejudice for Netflix, starring Emma Corrin, Jack Lowden, Olivia Colman, Rufus Sewell, Fiona Shaw and Daryl McCormack.
Prior to founding House, Howell served as television chief at Working Title, overseeing projects such as London Spy and Birdsong for the BBC, the BBC/HBO film Mary And Martha, Sky series Yonderland, and the Sky/NBC drama You, Me And The Apocalypse.
Announcing the move, Zai Bennett, CEO and Chief Creative Officer of BBC Studios Productions, said: “Juliette’s appointment reflects not just the creative strength of the shows we make, but the people who make them. By placing one of our most dynamic leaders into this role, we’re ensuring Lookout Point remains fearless and creatively charged for the future. I’m also delighted that Tessa will continue to lead House Productions as she’s a true force in an intensely competitive scripted market.”
Howell added: “I’m thrilled to be bringing my exciting slate of projects from House to join Lookout Point’s impressive production slate. I can’t wait to collaborate with the brilliant team shaping the next generation of hits and to continue championing the bold distinctive storytelling that has always excited me. Lookout Point has a remarkable legacy and an appetite for ideas that resonate with audiences. Stepping into this role is an incredible opportunity, and I’m so excited about this next chapter.”
Ross said: “I’m very proud of the work that Juliette, the team and I have done together over these last ten years at House. I’ve no doubt she’ll be a big success at Lookout Point and wish her great good luck and happiness.”
The move signals a notable reshaping of leadership across two of the UK’s most influential drama producers, reinforcing BBC Studios’ strategy of backing top-tier creative executives to steer its premium scripted labels into their next phase.
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