“We’re shining a light on the people who make the magic happen long before the cameras roll”

The first awards to specifically recognise UK location managers have been launched, to take place in the autumn.

The Location Managers Awards UK will be held on 4 October at St George’s Hall, Liverpool (pictured) – a venue that has been featured in many high-profile productions including House of Guinness, Peaky Blinders, Batman and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

Well-known location manager, producer and UPM Georgette Turner, event chair, said: “We’re shining a light on the people who make the magic happen long before the cameras roll, location professionals work in all weathers, communities, landscapes and countries and with tight deadlines and tighter budgets, they deliver environments and experiences making stories we all see on screen, come to life.”

Lynn Saunders, head of Liverpool Film Office, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome the Location Manager Awards UK to Liverpool for the first time. This prestigious event highlights the incredible talent and hard work of location managers across the country, and we couldn’t be prouder to host it in our city.

“Liverpool’s vibrant film industry and iconic locations make it the perfect backdrop for celebrating the art of location management, and we look forward to showcasing the city’s dynamic cultural scene to the wider industry in one the City’s BEST event settings.”

The judging panel, who met on 29 July to finalise the shortlist of nominees, comprises: Turner (event chair), Kevin Bell, Richard Ruck, Ian Pearce, Asha Sharma, John Rakich, Angus Macdonald, Spike Davies, Iggy Ellis and Joel Cockrill.

The awards and nominees are as follows:

Michael Harm Supervising Location Manager Award – Honouring the leader who balances creative vision with logistical and budgetary demands

Nominees: Dan Connolly; David Kellick; Harriet Lawrence; Alex Gladstone; Helene Lenszner; Christian McWilliams

Terry Blyther Location Department Award – For a location department or studio team that exemplifies excellence and collaboration

Nominees:
Gary Pickering & team – Mr Bates, The Post Office
Tony Hood & team – Bridgerton
Ian Pollington & team – Slow Horses
Andrew Bainbridge’s/Mark Valentine & team – Funny Women, World on Fire

Neil Grigson Studio Unit Manager Award – Celebrating the behind-the-scenes hero who keeps productions running smoothly, from logistics to safety

Nominees: Simon Crook; Drew Payne; Duncan Newland; Dean Sinacola

Liverpool Film Office Rising Star Award – A jury-selected award recognising emerging talent in the locations world

Nominees: Alex Tridmas; Laura Wilkinson; Emily Turnball

Andre St John Unit Manager Award – This award goes to someone who is “the heart of any production, truly first in and last out”.

Winner – Martin Walker – Kingsman Secret Service, World War Z, Guardians of the Galaxy, Rocketman, The Little Drummer Girl.

Fred Kelly Lifetime Achievement Award – Paying tribute to a career of outstanding contribution to the locations industry. The winner has been chosen by the jury and will be announced on the night.

The Location Managers Awards UK are held at St George’s Hall, Liverpool, on Saturday, 4 October 2025 from 3pm-8pm followed by an after-party. More details can be found here.