Ursus Productions is a Multi-Platform Production Company who produce a diverse range of factual and branded content for a variety of platforms. After moving into a studio at Motorworks as the winner of our 2024 ‘Startup at Motorworks’ competition, we caught up with Ben to find out more about what life’s like working in Frome and how winning a 3-month free tenancy has benefitted his company.
Tell us about yourself, what’s your background and what is your business?
I’m Ben Anderson. I am a zoologist, film-maker and the founder / director at Ursus Productions. We are a production company whose focus is on making the highest quality video content for our clients, whether that be a TV commercial, TV series, or online branded content.
What does an average workday look like to you?
The average workday is in the office working closely with clients to create the right outputs, and developing new ideas for us to pitch in our markets. The not so average workday is travelling the world and filming amazing stories.
"I love Frome. It’s a very creative and inspiring independent town."
Who or what inspires you about your business?
I enjoy being my own boss. I love working with people and the opportunity to work closely with my clients, but I love the flexibility that being your own boss allows.
What have been your major successes so far?
Our first TV series, ‘Britain’s Beautiful Rivers’ with Richard Hammond’ is something that I am immensely proud of. Taking that from a grain of an idea just a few weeks before the pandemic, to a commissioned TV series with one of the best, most well known presenters in the world was a very exciting time for Ursus. We are now fighting for our next commission.
What has winning a space at Motorworks meant for you and your business?
It’s given me a home away from home. Having worked from home for 7 years, it’s exciting to have a space where I can focus on the important things.
What are your favourite things about working in Frome?
I love Frome. It’s a very creative and inspiring independent town – which aligns with Ursus’ values closely.
What’s been your most challenging project to work on?
Every project has its challenges, but I’m fortunate enough to be doing my dream job, so I don’t find anything too challenging.
What’s been your favourite country to film in?
Kenya. It’s a very special place to me and the opportunity to work there has presented me and Ursus with some truly incredible opportunities.
What 3 things can you not live without?
My family – they are so awesome and so forgiving with my ever changing location and schedule.
Travel – the opportunity to travel and see the world is the greatest gift we have at Ursus, it makes our lives stressful, but so exciting too!
Music – such a lame answer, but there is always something being played in the office, car and at home. Not always ‘cool’, but it’s ace to have something to spark an idea.
Where can we find out more about you?
Our website www.ursusproductions.co.uk
You can also find us on socials, @ursusproductions or just follow me @benanderson1986.
