Business Development Manager

The Business Development Executive is the senior creative leader of the Los Angeles office and the day-to-day head of Zena Studios' development slate. This person shepherds Shaun Passley's (CEO) screenplay and IP portfolio — including Control, VILLAIN, Back to Heaven, Future Self, My Robot Army, and The Lunar Saga — from page to packaged, buyer-ready projects. They translate the creative vision into industry language, build relationships with studios and streamers, and serve as the operational anchor that the other LA hires report into.

Key Responsibilities

Own and manage Zena Studios' development slate, prioritizing projects and shaping each toward the right buyer (Netflix, Amazon, Apple, A24, and major studios)

Give and coordinate creative notes on screenplays and treatments in professional industry language; manage relationships with writers, ghostwriters, and outside script consultants

Package projects — attach directors, talent, and producers — in coordination with the literary manager / producer's rep and entertainment counsel

Build and maintain relationships with development executives, agents, and managers across studios, streamers, and production companies

Pitch and position projects to buyers; prepare pitch materials, decks, and look-books

Coordinate with the Business Development Lead to align creative development with ZenaDrone and ZenaTech product-placement objectives

Serve as the senior on-site leader of the LA office; oversee the Drone DP, Drone Production Coordinator, BD Lead, VFX/Integration Supervisor, and Office Manager/EA

Manage development budgets and report progress directly to the CEO/Chairman

Required Qualifications

7+ years in film/TV development at a studio, streamer, production company, or established management/production entity

Demonstrated track record taking material from script through to greenlight, option, or production

Strong existing relationships with buyers, agents, and managers in the Los Angeles market

Excellent story sense across genres — thriller, sci‑fi, superhero, and drama

Sound creative judgment in industry language; able to give actionable, professional note

Comfortable operating as a senior leader in a lean, entrepreneurial office tied to a publicly traded technology parent

Preferred / Nice to Have

Familiarity with technology or IP‑driven content and franchise/universe building

Experience working with first‑time or non‑traditional rights‑holders and authors

Awareness of drone cinematography and emerging production technology.

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