Simon came to do the MA Film at Screen Academy Scotland having previously studied BA Film & Photography at Edinburgh Napier University.

Having worked as a 1st AD on a number of short films during his time at Screen Academy, Simon naturally fell into the AD department once he graduated. He was helped on his way firstly by Hit The Ground Running, and then by being selected for the Screen NETS Runner Program where he worked as a runner in both the Location and AD departments. This  provided essential training as well as a placement on the Netflix series Love Sick Series 2.

Following on from this Susie Brown, Producer on the MA Film course, recommended Simon to Locations Manager Miglet Crichton who then hired him as the Locations Assistant on One Of Us (BBC, 2015). Simon continued to be given more responsibility and longer term employment as a Locations Assistant, working on The Loch (ITV, 2016) and Clique Series 1 (BBC, 2016).

In early 2017 Simon was stepped up to Unit Manager on Shetland Series 4 (BBC) and since then has worked as Unit Manager on Ordeal By Innocence (BBC), Outlander 4 (2nd Unit), Clique Series 2 (BBC), Trust Me Series 2 (BBC), Guilt (BBC), and Deadwater Fell (Channel 4). He has recently location scouted for upcoming drama series Elizabeth Is Missing (STV) and will next be working as the Unit Manager on the Netflix comedy Eurovision this autumn.

Simon says:
“During the MA course I was introduced to many aspects of short film production, particularly through the professional practice exercises. This gave me a solid foundation and understanding of what was required within the day to day running of a shoot. I was able to use these skills to help me transition into the industry.”