Martin Simms

With over twenty years in the Film and TV industry, Martin is a seasoned co-founder with deep expertise in screen content production, stakeholder engagement, and talent development. Early in his career, he developed and delivered the region’s first hands-on skills training initiative, Foot in the Door – Film & TV Skills, in partnership with Creative Alliance. This innovative programme successfully opened pathways for individuals from diverse backgrounds to enter the Film & TV industry in a variety of roles.

Martin began his career at the BBC, establishing himself as a Location Manager across a diverse slate of productions. He went on to hold pivotal roles at Film Birmingham as Production Liaison and Operations Manager, and later as Head of Network Development at the West Midlands Screen Bureau, where he championed creative sector growth and collaboration.

Currently, Martin serves as a Production and Inward Investment Consultant for Create Central, leading initiatives to strengthen the West Midlands’ creative content sector. His work is dedicated to expanding industry infrastructure, increasing workforce access, and connecting regional talent with national opportunities. As Vice Chair of the Royal Television Society (RTS) Midlands, Martin is a passionate advocate for new talent and greater representation in film and TV, underlining his commitment to diversity and inclusion at every stage of his career.