Anthony Browne

Anthony Browne is a true media maverick who's been making waves in the world of broadcasting since his days at Glasgow Caledonian University.

From writing for the university newspaper as Music Editor to co-founding BBC The Social, he's crafted a career that's as dynamic as the content he, and his teams, create.

As Head of BBC Scotland Productions, Anthony helps shape the stories that keep the nation informed and entertained.

But when Anthony first stepped foot on Glasgow Caledonian University’s campus to study Communication and Mass Media, his future in broadcasting wasn’t always so clear cut.

“When I left school, I wasn't entirely sure what I wanted to study. I had been interested in the idea of a career in Computing Science or the Creative Industries, but I didn't have a clear direction.

“After looking into various course options, the BA (Hons) in Communications and Mass Media felt like the best fit for me. The program covered a wide range of areas, which appealed to my broad interests.

“The course struck a great balance between theory and practical, hands-on experience. This allowed me to explore disciplines like filmmaking, radio production, marketing, psychology and sociology.

“Having the chance to try out different areas helped me settle on the specific roles I wanted to pursue further.”

Anthony found the vastness of the course itself to be one of the most rewarding parts of his university experience, in addition to extra-curricular opportunities offered on campus which encouraged him to develop those media skills.

“One highlight was working on the University newspaper as Music Editor and being part of the group that created the new Student Radio Station.

“This not only helped me meet a lot of great people, many of whom are still working in the industry, but also developed my love for commissioning and publishing content.”

Building connections is vital to a career within the media industry, as Anthony discovered early on in his career.

“GCU was also a wonderful place to build lasting connections. I've maintained friendships with people I met there who are now located all around the world, and in other parts of the BBC.”

However, Anthony points to his time at Glasgow Caledonian as the launchpad for his successful journey in media.

“My career has taken a number of different twists and turns, and I have been able to draw on various aspects of my studies at GCU over the years.

“From events and marketing to working in broadcasting, my course at GCU gave me knowledge of a wide variety of areas that I have been able to develop and lean on in my career since.

“I still make a point of returning each year to fulfil the role of external client for pitching sessions on my old course. It's a great way for me to stay connected and give back to the university community.”

Once the books were closed and his diploma was in hand, Anthony launched his own business before moving into events and digital marketing, where he honed his expertise in branding and communications.

His career skyrocketed when he started working at the BBC, where he created a social media strategy, co-founded talent initiative BBC The Social, and now oversees BBC Scotland Productions across TV, radio, and online.

"I love working with brilliant, creative people every day—doing it within a public service broadcaster is very rewarding."

“Don't be too rigid in how you see your career developing, always look for new opportunities to learn and try new things.

“Be yourself and be someone people can rely on to work hard to deliver results to the best of your ability. Always try to give back when you can and meet new people, who knows where new connections and opportunities will lead to.”