E4 soap Hollyoaks gets ‘editorial oversight’ from EastEnders’ Louise Donald

Louise Donald is the new Commissioning Executive for Channel 4 Drama, Hollyoaks…

Donald has over fifteen years of experience in script development within the UK drama sector. Beginning her career at the BBC’s Independent Drama Commissioning, she advanced from Team Assistant to Development Coordinator to Script Reader, and then to script editing for EastEnders.

Former EastEnders Script Editor Louise Donald:

“I’m thrilled to be joining Channel 4 as the new Commissioning Executive under Ollie Madden. Hollyoaks has a history for delivering the most talked about stories with its fearless and bold storytelling. It feels like such an exciting time to be a part of the show as they celebrate their 30th anniversary next year. Channel 4 also has a legacy for creating ground-breaking, thought provoking and original drama and I can’t wait to get started.”

She has worked with leading UK drama producers in various development roles, including script editing for Holby City, Death in Paradise (Series 1), and Good Karma Hospital (Series 4). At Channel 4, Louise will have editorial oversight of Hollyoaks, liaising closely with relevant Channel 4 teams and the production company, ensuring that the show maintains its editorial standards and linear and streaming performance.

Additionally, Louise will have responsibility overseeing a number of original dramas each year, as well as leading on Channel 4’s new talent schemes – including 4Screenwriting and the New Writers scheme.

The position has been confirmed by Ollie Madden, Head of Channel 4 Drama and Director of Film4 who notes:

“We couldn’t be happier that Louise is joining the Channel 4 Drama team at a very exciting time for both Hollyoaks and our newly expanded, original drama slate. Her significant experience working on continuing dramas, as well an amazing track record identifying and nurturing new writing talent, will be a huge asset to us.”

Louise will be based in Leeds and starts her new role in December.