As former Head of Channel Four Drama, Controller of BBC Drama Production and MD of Company Pictures, John has shaped stories that have attracted some of the biggest audiences for drama in UK TV history. He has overseen some of the most enduring and popular programmes, from Shameless and Life On Mars to EastEnders and Holby City, alongside award-winners like Bodies and Wolf Hall. He is winner of numerous awards, including two BAFTAs as producer and six as commissioning editor.

Throughout his career, John has forensically studied how stories work and why they resonate with audiences worldwide, distilling this knowledge into his book Into the Woods.

John can currently be heard analysing stories weekly on BBC Radio 4's Opening Lines. He is a proud alumnus and has been a Visiting Professor of English at Newcastle University.