After the triumph that was the first ever Young Arrows we are super hyped for this second year. We can talk about the benefits of recognising young talent until the cows come home, but who better to tell you why than our inaugural winners. Next up is Hector Murray, our 2022 Agency Producer winner.

Hector won the Agency Producer category for the film Turn Your Passion Into A Holiday for Ebookers through Leo Burnett

Why did you / your company enter you in the Young Arrows?

I had no idea I was being entered until my CPO messaged me about it! It felt like a great opportunity to get more of Leo’s work out there and show off the wide range of work we make here.

What did think about being entered?

I was very excited and humbled about being entered. The calibre of work was so high last year and I knew some of the amazing producers and teams that had worked on them – I felt very lucky to be put within the same categories as them.

How did it feel to win? Did you expect to win?!

I was completely shocked! The Agency Producer category wasn’t listed on the night so I wasn’t even convinced I was shortlisted for anything until they called my name! I have to say, the Leo’s gang came out in force and I was so overwhelmed from the cheers coming from our row.

Has winning had any impact on your career / career decisions?

It’s just given me that extra drive when approaching projects. Being recognised for my work as a producer is such a confidence boost and an assurance in my own abilities – or more that it means I’ve not been doing it completely wrong this whole time…! I always thought I’d want to stay as a producer until the end of my career, but in the last year or so since the awards I’ve really enjoyed developing more at Leo’s and wouldn’t rule out a step-up in the future if/when I’d be ready for it; which is quite exciting to think.

What do you think the benefits are of giving young talent opportunities in this way?

Having a separate awards show like this deservedly gives young talent more of a spotlight. The categories being sponsored by some big-named companies also means MDs and other big wigs attend these shows and allows more networking between industry veterans and up-and-comers. These are the ones who will be making the most exciting work in the future, so it’s in everyone’s best interest to give them the opportunities they need and pioneer them.

What are your career goals?

At the moment it’s just trying to make the best work possible and get on the most exciting and engaging scripts our creatives work up. I’m also keen on getting more involved in mentoring, as well as pushing underrepresented and up-and-coming talent through schemes like the Creative Mentor Network and the Unsinged Union which I’m very proud to be a part of alongside so many brilliant and talented people within our industry.

What would you say to someone thinking of entering this year?

Just apply, see what happens.

There’s no pressure or downside to entering and even if you don’t get nominated, then actually just submitting an entry is a great exercise for the future.

But if you’re lucky enough to get shortlisted, it’ll help open one more door in helping you develop further in whatever it is you’re passionate about.

Winners will be announced on Wednesday 1 November at BFI Southbank - Tickets are on sale here