Events to Attend 2026
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Read more for your guide to the major events taking place across regions and sectors throughout the year.
United Kingdom
Advertising Week Europe – 24th – 26th March 2026
At Advertising Week we thrive on the big conversations and we are gearing up for more. Mark your diary, save the date, block out the time because we’ll be back at 180 Studios with the ultimate mashup of content for marketing, media, creative and tech professionals.
https://advertisingweek.com/event/aweurope-2026/
London Game’s Festival – 13th – 19th April 2026
Where we connect studios and investors, plus Ensemble, our annual showcase of games talent from Black, Asian and underrepresented ethnicities.
https://festival.games.london/about
Creator Economy Live – 29th– 30th April 2026
Join HUNDREDS of the UK and Europe's biggest brands to learn from industry experts, form partnerships, take your influencer marketing to the next level and unlock real ROI!
https://www.creatoreconomylive.com/manchester/attend/register
Searchlight’s HR Forum – 30th April 2026
The People Shift: Leadership, Wellbeing and the Future of Work
We’ll explore the most pressing and transformative forces shaping today’s workplace and equip you with the insights you need to navigate what’s next with confidence.
Key sessions include:
- Your 2026 legal update
- A Practical Guide to Neurodivergence in the Workplace
- Shifting the Dial: Leadership in HR
- Supporting the Anxious Generation: Tools that Work
- The HR Challenges Behind Workplace Flexibility
- Networking buffet lunch
If you would like to attend, please email hrforum@searchlight.global
Media, Production, Television Show– 13th – 14th May 2026
For 10 years, MPTS has been the UK’s premier event for the media, production and broadcast industries — the place where technology meets creativity and the industry comes together to shape its future.
Each year, more than 13,000professionals and 300+ exhibitors gather at MPTS to discover new products, hear from influential voices, and make meaningful connections. From pre-production and post to distribution, audio, VFX and beyond, the show covers the full spectrum of content creation and technology.
The Podcast Show – 20th – 21st May 2026
This one-of-a-kind event brings together industry leaders, brands, and platforms alongside the most exciting emerging and established creators to celebrate, and help shape, the future of podcasting.
https://www.thepodcastshowlondon.com/
Sheffield DocFest – 10th – 15th June 2026
From feature films, shorts and television episodes to podcasts and immersive exhibitions, the festival brings the brightest and best in documentary storytelling to our vibrant city each June.
https://www.sheffdocfest.com/docfest-2026
Broadcast Digital Awards – 1st July 2026
Recognising and rewarding the most dynamic digital channels and programmes, effective and relevant second-screen content, multi-platform projects and original content produced online.
https://www.broadcastdigitalawards.co.uk/
MAD//Fest London – 7th– 9th July 2026
The UK’s biggest, buzziest +boldest marketing festival is back on 7-9 July 2026 for 3 explosive days of superstar speakers, networking, brand innovation pitches, master classes, experiential activations, food, drinks, parties, DJs + evening entertainment.
https://www.madfestlondon.com/
DigiMarCon UK – 3rd – 4th September 2026
At DigiMarCon, marketing professionals will gain the insights, strategies, and tools needed to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly changing environment. From cutting-edge AI-driven personalization to automation breakthroughs that maximize efficiency, this year’s theme highlights the critical need for marketers to innovate boldly, adapt swiftly, and dominate their industry.
Edinburgh International FilmFestival – 13th – 19thAugust 2026
Edinburgh International FilmFestival (EIFF) is the world’s oldest continually running film festival. Honouring70+ years of festival history, EIFF showcases the very best filmmaking talent in a re-energised format that is rooted in a local Scottish context whilst embracing the international diversity of creative expression.
The Future of Media, Manchester – 17th September 2026
The Future of Media is the event where you will meet your peers, have a chance to share your experiences, and take actions back to the office. You'll access clear, timely and useful strategies and tactics that help you win in the fast-changing world of advertising. Set your agenda for growth in a market that can’t help but disrupt itself.
https://www.adwantedevents.com/fomm26/10961696
Brand Licensing Europe – 6th – 8th October 2026
Brand Licensing Europe (BLE) is the only pan-European event dedicated to licensing and brand extension, bringing together retailers, licensees and manufacturers for three days of deal-making, networking and trend spotting.
https://www.brandlicensing.eu/exhibit/why-exhibit/
BFI London Film Festival – 7th – 18th October 2026
12-day programme is jam-packed with the world’s best new films, series and immersive storytelling. This is your chance to delight in the undiscovered, as all feature films and series are being shown in the UK for the first time.
https://whatson.bfi.org.uk/lff/Online/default.asp
Broadcast Sports Summit – 12th November 2026
The event where sports producers, content creators, broadcasters, athletes, brands, clubs, and federations come together to explore the latest developments in sports content.
https://www.broadcastsportevents.co.uk/
International
NAB Show, 18th – 22nd April 2026 – Las Vegas
From next-gen workflows and AI to monetization and global reach, this is media and entertainment’s flagship event for breakthrough tech, major deals and global visibility.
Cannes Film Festival – 12th May – 23rd May2026 – Cannes, France
Carried by its 78 editions, the international Festival de Cannes is one of the world's most widely publicised events and certainly the most important film festival in terms of world wide impact. Through the works, artists and themes it platforms on the world stage over the course of its 12-day line-up, the event is forever engaged in a process of self-renewal.
https://www.festival-cannes.com/en/
VidCon Anaheim – 25th – 27th June 2026 - California
VidCon is the world’s largest celebration of digital culture and its creators in real life. It is the only event that sits at the intersection of all aspects of the creator economy — creators, fans, brands, and the industry.
https://www.vidcon.com/anaheim/
IBC Amsterdam – 11th – 16th September 2026 - Amsterdam
IBC is the global platform where the future of Media and Entertainment is imagined – and made real. As consumer behaviours shift and technology evolves at unprecedented speed, IBC unites the people, products, and ideas shaping the future of M&E.
Advertising Week – 5th – 8th October 2026 – New York
Reimagined experience built for today’s changemakers across marketing, media, tech and culture. Discover ground breaking ideas, create new partnerships and soak up the energy of the industry’s most dynamic event.
https://advertisingweek.com/event/awnewyork-2025/
MipCom Cannes – 12th – 15th October 2026 – Cannes, France
Every October against the backdrop of France's celebrated Croisette in Cannes, MIPCOM CANNES becomes the epicentre of the global content industry. As the largest global television and streaming content market, MIPCOM CANNES reflects the reshaping of the media landscape.
https://www.mipcom.com/en-gb.html
Dubai International Content Market – 10th – 11th November 2026 - Dubai
Dubai International Content Market is a purpose-built exhibition where aspirations of international content & entertainment professionals discover the Middle East and Africa . The largest content exhibition in the region and amongst one of the best in terms of participating formula, services offered, logistics and return of investment. Over 60 “Plug-n-Work” options are available for start-ups and established companies.
Asia TV Forum & Market – 2nd – 4th December 2026 – Singapore
Stay ahead in the entertainment content industry as Asia leads global growth. Connect with Asia Pacific buyers and key industry players to promote, produce, and distribute content in this dynamic market. Leverage ATF’s Online+ platform to generate leads and buzz before and after the event.
https://www.asiatvforum.com/en-gb.html
Mark your calendars for the year ahead!
Forbes: 7 Media Trends That Will Redefine Entertainment In 2026
Entertainment in 2026 has entered a new phase and Forbes suggests the shift will be hard to miss. AI is moving into the creative process in a much bigger way, audiences are leaning toward more interactive and immersive experiences.
Events to Attend in 2026
2026 brings a full calendar of industry events across film, television, advertising, gaming, music, licensing, sport and much more! From major global festivals and trade shows to sector-specific conferences and markets, these gatherings remain key moments for our industry.
AI in Action: Applications in TV Production
Highlights from the Royal Television Society’s “AI in Action” event—how TV teams are using AI tools in production, the challenges ahead, and why AI fluency is now essential.
AI Powered Advertising to Drive Growth in the Global Media and Entertainment Industry
PwC forecasts media and entertainment growth to $3.5T by 2029—driven by AI, digital advertising, ad-supported streaming, retail media, and gaming’s expanding ad revenue.
5 Key Takeaways from Brand Licensing Europe 2025
Five key takeaways from Brand Licensing Europe 2025: Europe’s licensing growth, immersive brand experiences, localised strategies, the role of agents, and Gen Alpha engagement.
Sport and Media Rights
Media and sport are converging fast—explore the money behind major broadcast rights, pay-per-view events, and the rise of esports and competitive gaming in today’s sports media landscape.
International Women’s Day 2025
Celebrating International Women’s Day at Searchlight, with reflections from our team on inspiration, career barriers, and advice for young women.
Searchlight Hr Forum 2025 – Shaping Tomorrow: Innovation And The Evolving Workplace
Highlights from Searchlight’s 2025 HR Forum at Selfridges: Gen Z engagement, employment law updates, harassment, ESG, AI and DEI.
Searchlight & Versa Manchester
Searchlight and VERSA Studios hosted a Manchester event promoting Northern production, featuring RED’s Mags Conway, an expert panel, and a studio tour.
Searchlight At Rts Futures!
Searchlight partnered with an RTS Futures panel to share CV and application advice for early-career talent, with insights from TV and hiring leaders.
Bafta Guru Live Round-Up
A recap of Searchlight’s BAFTA Guru Live session in London—freelancing advice from Sara Putt, a lively Q&A, plus CV surgery and showreel reviews.
Media Trust: Creativity Works At Searchlight
Searchlight hosted Media Trust trainees at WeWork Aldwych House, sharing CV and cover letter tips plus a workshop on breaking into media careers.
Searchlight At Bafta Guru Live
Searchlight supports BAFTA Guru Live in London and Glasgow, sponsoring “How to Freelance” and offering CV clinics plus showreel advice.
The Future Of The Creative Industries
A look at what’s next for the UK’s creative industries—Brexit impacts, new funding, immersive tech growth, and support for emerging talent.
Searchlight To Sponsor Bafta Guru Live
Searchlight returns to sponsor BAFTA Guru Live’s “How To Freelance” session in London, offering Q&A insights plus CV and cover letter advice.
Searchlight At The Creativity Works: Multimedia Genius Scheme
Searchlight shares highlights from delivering CV, cover letter and career-entry workshops at Google UK for Media Trust’s Creativity Works training for aspiring young creatives.
Two Minutes With.. Katharina Feistauer
Katharina shares highlights from her new VP of Programming role at Viacom Nickelodeon, from shaping UK strategy to immersing in kids’ content and team life.
Searchlight To Sponsor The Edinburgh Television Festival
Searchlight is sponsoring Wi-Fi at the Edinburgh TV Festival (22–24 Aug), keeping 2,000 delegates connected across 70+ sessions, talks and screenings.
TV Into Film
When a hit series ends, a film can be a satisfying send-off or a legacy-damaging misstep. From The Simpsons to Deadwood, what makes the jump work?
Searchlight & Lumina’s 2018 Hr Forum
HR Forum highlights from NBCUniversal: expert talks on the evolving media landscape, gender pay, workplace practice, GDPR, and the future of HR in a fast-changing industry.
Ai In Broadcasting: Added Insights And Creative Help
A recap of RTS’s “AI in Broadcasting” event at ITV Studios, exploring where AI can save time, support creativity, and why human control remains essential.
The Changing Workplace – What’s Next For Media Companies?
A quick look at how workplaces are changing, and why gender equality and fair recognition are still under scrutiny despite clear progress across parts of the media industry.
A Sit Down With Jade Tan- Director Of Programming At Shorts
Jade Tan’s move from Sky Cinema to ShortsTV shows how strong relationships and fresh challenges can lead to bigger impact, global scope, and a healthier work-life balance.
A Sit Down With Barry Quinn
From festival radio to kids TV and animation, Barry Quinn shares his career journey—and why his move to Lime Pictures feels like a real step up.
Should Cgi Replace The Use Of Real Firearms?
With CGI advancing fast, why are blank-firing guns still used on set? We unpack safety, realism, budgets, and better options.
Our Recruiter Wishlist
Tips for a smoother hiring process: treat recruiters as part of the team, share a detailed brief and full package, allow office/context visits, and give fast, clear feedback to maintain momentum.
5 Women Leading The UK Media Industry
A spotlight on five influential women shaping UK media—from Sister and Bad Wolf to the BBC, Netflix and Fremantle—highlighting progress and the C-suite gender gap.
Bafta Guru Live Round Up
Searchlight returned to BAFTA Guru Live online, sharing CV, cover letter and showreel tips to a record audience, with practical do’s and don’ts for creatives.
What Is The Future Of The Television And Video Industry?
Streaming is reshaping TV: SVOD/FAST/VOD are entrenched, platforms now produce content, ads are becoming more targeted, aggregation may return “bundle” models, and traditional players must adapt.
Searchlight Supports Media Trust And The National Film And Television School
Searchlight supported early-career talent through CV screenings and talks at Media Trust and NFTS, helping diverse students strengthen applications and enter media careers.
Can Virtual Production Help The Film & Television Industry Become More Sustainable?
Virtual production could cut TV/film emissions by reducing travel and set builds, using LED volumes and reusable digital sets to save time and carbon.
Bafta Guru Live
Searchlight will sponsor BAFTA Guru Live’s “How to freelance” session in London (15–16 Sept), sharing practical tips for managing and promoting your freelance career.
The Role Of Media In Breaking Down Stereotypes
Media and storytelling can challenge prejudice by improving authentic representation, with examples like Ms Marvel showing how inclusive narratives broaden cultural understanding.
5 Minutes With Antony Garvey
An interview with LBC’s Head of Video Antony Garvey on his move from the BBC to Global, growing the video team, and advice for building a long-term media career.
A Look At The UK Film Industry
ScreenSkills warns UK film/HETV needs 21k more workers by 2025 as production grows, with investment spreading to Scotland, Wales and NE.
Media Trust
Searchlight delivered a Media Trust session on CVs, cover letters, and breaking into media, supporting the Creativity Works training for young Londoners.
Tips To Avoid Freelance Fatigue
A practical guide for freelancers to avoid burnout: set boundaries, take breaks, say no, stop comparisons, and schedule real time off to recharge.
Reality TV: Evolving Or Stagnating?
Reality TV is booming again via streaming and social media, mixing familiar formulas with newer, more inclusive formats—raising questions about real evolution and duty of care.
Interview With – Thomas Ryan: Head Of Post-Production At Connected Pictures
An interview with Connected Pictures’ Thomas Ryan on his non-traditional path into post, rapid career growth, leading the post-production team, and working with Searchlight.
Live Action Remakes
Disney’s live-action remakes are booming at the box office, but spark debate over nostalgia vs reinvention as films like Aladdin and The Lion King aim to become new classics.
The RTS In Cambridge
RTS Cambridge highlighted media uncertainty, new streaming disruptors, and the need for UK regulation to catch up as audiences shift from linear TV to on-demand.
The Evolution Of Movie Distribution: Unraveling The Shrinking Theatrical Windows
Streaming and shifting studio strategy have shrunk cinema exclusivity to around 30 days, forcing theatres to adapt with premium experiences, flexible windows, and new tech.
Must-See Films And Tv Shows For Black History Month
A Black History Month watchlist of standout films and series celebrating Black stories, culture, and representation across drama, comedy, animation, and horror.
Console Wars
PS5’s UK launch kicks off the next console war, with Sony’s exclusives facing Xbox’s Game Pass momentum and major studio acquisitions.
The Year Ahead: What’s Next For The Media Industry
YouGov’s media outlook highlights 2022’s digital surge and predicts 2023 growth in streaming, more bundling, sports shifting to DTC, and cinemas rethinking models.
How To Hire With Diversity And Inclusion In Mind
A step-by-step guide to diversity recruiting: measure current representation, use inclusive job ads, train hiring teams, hire for culture add, align employer branding, and support retention.
How To Hire With Diversity & Inclusion In Mind
A practical guide to inclusive hiring: write unbiased job specs, widen candidate sourcing, shortlist fairly, and run accessible, structured interviews to reduce bias.
Working With The Media Trust
Searchlight shared CV and cover letter tips with Media Trust trainees, supporting underrepresented young adults through the Creativity Works Futures bootcamp.
Searchlight & Lumina HR Forum: Shaping The Workplace Of The Future
HR Forum recap on the workplace of the future: culture, inclusion and flexibility, the “S” in ESG, key employment law updates, and respect on set.
How Can AI Revolutionise Recruitment: An Exploration In Enhancing Efficiency And Human Expertise
AI could streamline recruitment by speeding up screening, sourcing, assessments, and bias checks, freeing consultants to focus on relationships, judgement, and cultural fit.
What Does The UK General Election Mean For Employment Law?
With the 4 July 2024 election, Labour’s ‘New Deal’ could overhaul workers’ rights; employers should prepare and manage office tensions.
Lewis Silkin – Legal Update
Employment law update: stronger family leave redundancy protection, new carers leave, proactive anti-harassment duty, holiday pay and flexible working changes.
Protecting Employee (And Your Own) Mental Health
HR Forum highlights on protecting mental health at work, with practical advice on spotting issues, supporting struggling staff, and signposting help and resources.
Lisa Opie: The Future Of Gaming And The Media Industry
Ubisoft’s Lisa Opie on gaming’s unique workforce, diversity gaps, and creative power, plus rising crossover with TV via engines and hit adaptations like The Last of Us.
Can The BBC Be Both A Global Giant And A Local Champion?
Tim Davie’s BBC vision: stronger UK storytelling and BBC Verify, more AI and streaming, global growth, regional production, licence-fee reform by 2028.
Managing HR Challenges During Periods Of Significant Expansion & Contraction
HR leaders shared lessons from Lionsgate and Channel 4 on managing rapid growth and contraction through clear communication, planning, and supporting staff through change.
The Labour Government’s Impact: A Game Changer For Entertainment And Media?
Labour’s plans could boost UK entertainment and media with investment, skills, fairer freelance work, and renewed global partnerships.
The Evolution Of Job Roles In The Industry: New Titles And Skills.
The media and entertainment industries are in the midst of a digital revolution, reshaping not only how content is consumed but also who creates it, and how. As streaming platforms, social media, and immersive technologies change the landscape, new job roles have emerged, blending creativity with cutting-edge tech skills.
What The Media Industry Wants From The New Labour Government
With the recent landslide election of a Labour government, the UK film and television industry is hoping for new policies to reshape and reinvigorate the industry. Representatives from various sectors of the industry have voiced their desires for comprehensive support and strategic reforms to address current challenges and harness future opportunities.
AI In Recruitment, Executive Search, And HR
At Searchlight, we’ve been looking at how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can reshape the recruitment landscape. Through exploring the perks and pitfalls, we’ve gathered some insights into how it can transform our work—and yours.
25 Years Of Searchlight.
Searchlight turns 25: a Paris celebration and reflections from founders and long-standing team members on the moments that shaped the journey
Shaping The Spotlight: Black Visionaries Shaping Film, TV, Music And Gaming.
Honouring Black History Month with a spotlight on creators driving film, TV, music and gaming forward—on screen and behind it.
Channel 4 Spending Bounceback
Channel 4’s Chief Content Officer Ian Katz has spoken on the broadcaster’s recent strategic decisions aimed at reinforcing its ability to support independent producers in the long run.
So You Have A Video Interview?
Video interviews are here to stay. This guide shares hiring managers’ top tips to help you feel confident on camera—from testing your tech and choosing the right setup, to preparing competency examples, looking professional, and making a strong impression with clear answers and smart questions.
Feeling Stuck? Here’s How You Can Take The Next Step
Landing a job in the media and entertainment industry can be tough and it’s normal to feel a bit stuck at times. We’ve put together some FAQs we think could really help guide you on your journey.
Global Supply Chains Hit By Trump’s Tariff Rule. Here’s What It Means:
On Sunday 4th May 2025, Trump stunned Hollywood by declaring ‘Commerce Department and USTR to impose a 100% tariff on every movie coming into our country produced in foreign lands’ via his X account. His declaration sent the industry into a frenzy just as Avengers: Doomsday has begun filming in England.
Recruitment Trends To Watch In 2025: What They Mean For Us
As recruitment professionals, Searchlight has seen the field evolve significantly over the years. As we’ve entered 2025, several key trends are redefining how we connect talent with opportunity. These changes affect how we work as well as how we create stronger and more inclusive professional communities.
Understanding Media Consumption Across Generations
As UK media habits shift, traditional TV viewing is declining—those watching 3+ hours a day fell from 58.8% (2022) to 52.3% (2024)—while streaming continues to grow, with 60.6% of consumers watching at least an hour of streamed TV daily.
The Podcast Industry In 2025
Since 2023, podcasts have become one of the most accessible and engaging forms of media, with convenience cited as one of the key reasons for their success. Podcasts allow for learning and entertainment whilst multitasking, making them an ideal companion for today’s busy lifestyles.
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