“There’s definitely no standard day,” says Verity MacLeod, a Producer at Coronation Street. “It’s the best job in the world because you get to make up stories all day and play with your favourite characters.”
Verity’s day involves script and storyline development, working closely with writers, actors, directors and the production team. “[It’s about] designing the stories that go on the telly and entertain the nation,” she explains.
Her journey began with film runner roles, leading to a life-changing Coronation Street work experience stint. “[It’s been] 20 years since my work experience in October,” she says, highlighting her enduring love for the show. “I started watching it with my Grandma when I was three or four and I have lovely memories of that.”
But it’s more than nostalgia that keeps her at Coronation Street. “The team is full of wonderful, talented, passionate people,” she enthuses.
Perhaps most rewarding is the impact the show’s stories can have. “I love telling stories that have an impact in the real world,” she confides, mentioning hard-hitting storylines like Aidan’s suicide and Bethany’s grooming. “When you know you’ve made a difference to someone in the real world it matters so much to me.”
Verity is also a champion for women in the industry. “There’s still a glass ceiling and we need to smash it,” she declares. “I love seeing other women in important roles and ITV is definitely a great company for that.”
With a female CEO at the helm of ITV, Verity finds inspiration all around her. “Having a female CEO running ITV is very inspiring,” she concludes.
For more on the Women behind Weatherfield see these chats, Corrie photographer Danielle Baguley, Head of Design Rosie Mullins-Hoyle, Gillian Walsh, Coronation Street’s Head of Hair and Make-up and Coronation Street writer Jan McVerry
Coronation Street continues on Monday at 8pm on ITV1
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