Ebba Jägberg

DRIVEN BY CURIOSITY

Onsite Production Manager at ViaPlay

As a Production Manager in TV, Ebba orchestrates every detail and makes things happen. She excels in the dynamic, ever-changing environment of TV, where she thrives on continuous learning and the opportunity to travel the world. 

What was it that first enticed you to pursue a career in television? 

When I studied at the Swedish School in London, I occasionally attended the recordings of the talk show Skavlan (Scandinavia’s answer to The Tonight Show), which was sometimes recorded in London. Being in the audience sparked my interest in working in TV, so when I saw an advert in a Facebook group for a Production Coordinator position at Skavlan, I felt compelled to apply. In my application, I mentioned my frequent attendance as an audience member, and to my delight, I was offered the role. It was an incredible first job; just two months in, I had already met The Dalai Lama and David Attenborough. 

After four seasons with Skavlan, I transitioned to working on the reality dating show The Bachelor, filming in South Africa. 

Today you work as an Onsite Production Manager for a Sports Channel. What is special with this role? 

After freelancing for a few years, I grew tired of project-based work and sought more job security. This led me to a position as Live Broadcast Planner and Coordinator at ViaPlay Sports. The role was technical and involved tasks such as mapping satellite usage, staffing, and ensuring we had the necessary technical skills for the broadcast. Despite not being a sports fan initially, I found I really enjoyed the live TV environment. Within six months, I was promoted to a team leader position. 

What is it about project management that excites you? 

I enjoy coordinating events and find working in live TV immensely fun due to its dynamic nature. In my current role, I oversee the coverage of motor sports, the Women’s Premiership (Damallsvenskan) and Winter Sports. I manage the team that covers these events on-site, including commentators, experts, reporters, and the film crew. My team is fantastic, and we have a lot of fun together. Additionally, I get to travel frequently, which is a great perk.  

”Attending school provides not only theoretical knowledge but also general knowledge that benefits you later in life.”

What advice can you give someone who wants to pursue a career in TV? 

Gain practical work experience. While a formal education is valuable, practical skills learned on the job are essential for securing employment. This often means starting with junior positions and working your way up. In the early stages of your career, you must work hard, but persistence will help you advance. 

It’s also important to find your passion. The TV industry offers a variety of roles, so you need to identify what you enjoy and excel at. Whether it’s content creation, technical work, or project management, there are opportunities to explore different areas once you are in the industry. Personally, I discovered my passion for project management after trying various roles. 

What are your views on education? What do you get besides grades? 

Attending school provides not only theoretical knowledge but also general knowledge that benefits you later in life. You learn how to engage in discussions, form arguments and of course interact and socialise with others.  

Studying in London was a luxury; in addition to becoming “book smart”, I also became more street smart. I developed immensely during my time at the Swedish School, and my classmates soon became like family. It was such a brilliant community, and I have never had such close relationships before or since. I feel privileged to have had that experience. 

Is having an international outlook important for you? 

It’s very important. After my time in London, I pursued further studies at a university in Scotland because I wanted to explore more of the world. Many of my classmates did the same. Living abroad at a young age sparked a wanderlust in us. We discovered that living in another country isn’t intimidating and that there is so much out there to explore. 

What is the fondest memory you have from the Swedish School? 

Reflecting on the school, I realise how special it is to many, and I feel a great sense of pride in having attended it. My fondest memory is graduating from 6th form. We hired a boat in Richmond, each bringing four guests, and celebrated on the Thames all the way to Westminster Pier. The festivities continued in Soho until the early hours.  

Are you still in touch with your classmates? 

I remain very close with eight other girls from my second year in sixth form. We were inseparable at school, and we still meet up for a girls’ weekend every year. We have a tradition where each of us writes a letter to our future selves for the following year. Last year, we celebrated our 10-year anniversary with a London trip, and I had the honour of being the toastmaster of one of my friend’s wedding. I definitely have the school to thank for most of my closest friendships today.