Head of Bectu Philippa Childs to leave union role in January 2027

Philippa Childs has announced she will step down from her role in January 2027 after more than eight years leading the Bectu sector of Prospect union.

Since taking up the post in 2018 as Bectu’s first female head, Philippa has championed the rights of nearly 40,000 staff, contract and freelance workers across the creative industries, including broadcasting, film and TV, theatre, fashion, live events and more.

Under her leadership, Bectu has become a leading voice for creative industry workers – particularly freelancers – through one of the most tumultuous and challenging periods for the sector. This included the devastating and lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as the continuing challenges facing workers following the UK’s exit from the EU.

Philippa also led Bectu’s response to the prolonged slowdown in UK film and TV production following industrial action in the United States in 2023 and the financial pressures facing broadcasters. She has consistently called for long-term, sustainable funding for the BBC, championing its future at the heart of the UK’s creative ecosystem while supporting members through significant job cuts and restructures.

Throughout her time as Head of Bectu, Philippa has been a leading voice in tackling bullying and harassment, including sexual harassment, across the creative industries. She has championed the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) and has remained outspoken on improving representation on and off screen, and ensuring greater equality of access to careers across the sector.

Philippa has spent much of her career in the trade union movement and has led Bectu’s political influencing work, serving on the DCMS Industrial Strategy Taskforce. She was instrumental in securing the government’s commitment to appoint a Freelance Champion to advocate for the UK’s freelance workforce.

Under Philippa’s leadership, Bectu has grown its membership by around 10,000 members and expanded its reach into sectors including live events and fashion, strengthening the union’s voice across the creative industries.

Philippa will remain in post until January 2027. Prospect will begin the process of appointing her successor in the coming months, ensuring continuity for members and allowing Philippa to support the new Head of Bectu as they take up the role.

Philippa Childs said:

“I am incredibly proud and honoured to have led Bectu throughout one of the most challenging periods for the creative industries in recent memory.

“Bectu members are at the heart of everything we do and it has been a real privilege to work with and for so many talented, passionate workers who really are the beating heart of our world-renowned creative industries.

“I want to thank my colleagues, Bectu reps, industry partners and the countless others I’ve worked with in this role for their collaboration and shared commitment to making work better in this unique and cherished sector.

“Of course, there is still lots more work to do to ensure everyone working in the creative industries can have a happy, healthy and sustainable career, no matter their background. I am sure my successor will continue this critical work.”

Prospect General Secretary Mike Clancy said:

“I have worked with Philippa for many years and hugely admire her tireless commitment to the creative industries and the wider trade union movement.

“From driving grassroots campaigns in workplaces up and down the country to advocating for members at the highest levels of government, her passion and determination to secure a better deal for the country’s creative workforce means she can leave Bectu proud of the huge difference she has made.

“Throughout her career Philippa has made a huge contribution to the trade union movement, and I know she will continue to make an impact whatever she turns to next.

“On behalf of our members, we wish her all the best for the future.”