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ITV

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FY2014 Annual Report · ITV
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ITV set for continued growth  
after another strong year

ITV plc Annual Report and Accounts
for the year ended 31 December 2014

sluglineWelcome to our
Annual Report 2014

Learn more . . .
Online Annual Report
The Online Annual Report is available at
ar2014.itvplc.com

Corporate website
We maintain a corporate website at www.itvplc.com containing a wide range of 
information of interest to institutional and private investors including:
•	 Latest news and press releases
•	 Annual reports and investor presentations
•	 Governance documents
•	 Corporate Responsibility content

Video content
See our latest showreels at  
www.itvplc.com/media/showreel

Front cover picture: 
Thunderbirds Are Go, produced by 
ITV Studios, will air on ITV in spring 
2015. The show has already been 
commissioned for a second series 
and sold to countries including 
Australia, New Zealand and Israel.

slugline167

Shareholder 
Information and  
Glossary.

Look out for these icons 
within the report

Read more content within this report

Read more content online

01

Strategic Report 
The Strategic Report explains in detail how we have performed this year and sets out a fair review of the business, a balanced and comprehensive 
analysis of our performance, the use of key performance indicators to explain the progress we have made, a description of the principal risks and 
uncertainties facing the Company, and an indication of potential future developments.  

The Strategic Report is prepared in line with the relevant provisions of the Companies Act 2006 and the Company has had regard to the guidance issued 
by the Financial Reporting Council. It is intended to provide shareholders with a better understanding of the Company, of its position in the markets 
within which it operates, and of its prospects.  

In setting out the Company’s main risks and uncertainties, an indication of potential future developments, and in other content, this report and accounts 
contains statements that are based on knowledge and information available at the date of preparation of the Strategic Report, and what are believed 
to be reasonable judgements, and therefore cannot be considered as indications of likelihood or certainty. A wide range of factors may cause the 
actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those contained within, or implied by, these various forward-looking statements. None of these 
statements should be construed as a profit forecast.

slugline  02Strategic ReportProvides a comprehensive review of ITV’s business and strategy.  57GovernancePresents a clear view of  ITV’s governance.   101Financial StatementsITV’s audited financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2014.Strategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVPictured: 
Downton Abbey returned for a fifth series 
in autumn 2014. 10.7 million watched the 
first episode making it ITV’s most watched 
drama, with an average 10.4 million viewers 
for the series and a 38% share.

02

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategic 
Report

Overview

Investor Proposition

2014 Highlights

ITV At A Glance

Strategy

Business Model

Market Review

Chairman’s Statement

Strategy and Operations

Chief Executive’s Review

Performance Dashboard

Strategic Priority  1

Strategic Priority  2

Strategic Priority  3

Performance and Financials

Key Performance Indicators

Financial and Performance Review

Risks and Uncertainties

04

05

06

07

08

10

12

14

20

22

26

30

34

38

50

03

sluglineStrategic ReportOverviewInvestor Proposition2014 HighlightsITV at a GlanceStrategy Business ModelMarket ReviewChairman’s Statementar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVInvestor Proposition

•	 ITV plc (ITV or the Company) continues to make significant strategic progress in growing and 

strengthening the business creatively, commercially and financially 

•	 Over the last five years, we have delivered strong revenue and double digit profit growth every year 

while increasing adjusted earnings per share by over 650%

•	 We have made significant progress rebalancing the business, reducing our dependence on UK 

advertising and driving new revenue streams to build a more global organisation

•	 Our international content business, ITV Studios, is now a global player of scale, and we will continue to 

grow both organically and through acquisitions in key creative markets

•	 Online, Pay & Interactive revenue is now a material and profitable part of the business with continued 

strong growth expected as we build our global pay and distribution business

•	 Our Broadcast business delivers unrivalled audience reach for advertisers in the UK and we will benefit from 
our continued creative investment as we exploit our content across multiple platforms, both free and pay

•	 We have maintained a strong balance sheet and delivered consistently strong cash generation, while 

growing shareholder returns and committing to at least 20% dividend growth per annum for three years

•	 As we enter the next phase of our strategy we continue to see investment opportunities to grow 

the business and enhance shareholder value while maintaining capital discipline and balance sheet 
efficiency

Pictured: 
Cilla was a huge hit in autumn 2014. It 
averaged 8.3 million viewers with a 31% 
share making it the most watched new 
drama in 2014 on any channel, and the only 
new drama to average over 8 million viewers.

04

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Overview2014 Highlights

Group external revenue
£2,590m

Non-NAR revenue*
£1,327m

8%
YoY

0
9
5
2

,

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2,750

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2,250

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£m
1,500

1,250

1,000

750

500

10%
YoY

7
2
3
1

,

1
1
2
1

,

Overview
Investor Proposition
2014 Highlights
ITV at a Glance
Strategy 
Business Model
Market Review
Chairman’s Statement

EBITA before exceptionals
£730m

18%
YoY

0
3
7

0
2
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n   2 0 0 9   

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  2

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£m
800

600

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09

10

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10

11

12

13

14

09

10

11

12

13

14

Adjusted profit before tax
£712m

Adjusted EPS
13.8p

Dividend per share
10.95p

£m
800

600

400

n   2 0 0 9   

e   o

s

a

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9 %  I n

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  5

23%
YoY

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46%
YoY

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.

.

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09

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09

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11

12

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09

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13

14

Profit before tax is £605m (2013: £435m)

EPS is 11.6p (2013: 8.3p)

6%growth in NAR

Our strongest outperformance 
of the television advertising 
market in five years

In 2014 we grew our
share of broadcast to

45.9%

 up from 45.4% in 2013

Online, Pay & 
Interactive 
revenue up

30%

Committed to at least
20% ordinary
dividend growth
for three years to 2016

9% growth
in total ITV
Studios revenue
with almost half its revenue
generated outside of the UK

Group EBITA margin of 

28%up from 26% in 2013

* Non-Net Advertising Revenue (Non-NAR) includes all ITV revenue, both internal and external, except Net Advertising Revenue (NAR)

05

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITV 
 
 
 
ITV at a Glance

ITV total revenue

Broadcast & Online    £2,023m
  £933m
ITV Studios 

ITV EBITA before exceptionals

Broadcast & Online 

ITV Studios 

  £568m
£162m

Overview
ITV, as an integrated producer broadcaster, creates, owns and 
distributes high quality content on multiple platforms. 

We operate the largest commercial family of channels in 
the UK and deliver our content through traditional television 
broadcasting as well as on demand via ITV Player.

ITV Studios
ITV Studios is the Group’s international content business. We 
have built significant scale in key creative markets around 
the world, creating and producing programmes and formats 
that return and travel, namely drama, entertainment and 
factual entertainment.

ITV Studios UK is the largest commercial producer in the UK. 
We produce programming across a diverse range of genres 
for ITV’s own channels, accounting for 60% of the total 
spend on original commissions for the main channel, as well 
as for other UK broadcasters such as the BBC, Channel 4 and 
Sky. 

ITV Studios America is the largest unscripted independent 
producer of content in the US. We have acquired a number 
of unscripted and reality producers and are also growing our 
scripted presence, using our strong cash flows to produce 
high profile dramas with the potential to travel and build 
international appeal.

ITV Studios also operates in Germany, France, Australia 
and the Nordics, producing content for local broadcasters 
in these regions. This content is either created locally or 
formats that have been created elsewhere by ITV, primarily 
the UK. 

Global Entertainment, ITV’s distribution business, licenses 
ITV’s finished programmes and formats and third party 
content internationally. Within this business we also 
finance productions both on and off-ITV to acquire global 
distribution rights.

Our international studios business creates and produces 
content for both our own channels and third parties, while 
our distribution business, Global Entertainment, sells 
finished programmes and formats worldwide. 

Broadcast & Online
ITV broadcasts a wide variety of content on its family of 
free-to-air channels. We invest over £1 billion annually in 
programming for our channels which is primarily funded by 
television advertising revenue. ITV has the largest share of 
the UK television advertising market, and we estimate this 
share to be 45.9% in 2014.

Our main channel (ITV main channel), is the largest 
commercial channel in the UK, delivering 99% of all 
commercial audiences over five million. Our free-to-air 
digital channels provide more targeted demographics for 
advertisers and consist of ITV2 and ITV3, the two largest 
digital channels in the UK, ITV4, CITV and ITVBe, a lifestyle 
and reality channel that launched in 2014. We also have 
high definition versions of our digital channels available on 
pay platforms and launched ITV Encore, our first pay only 
channel, in 2014. The family of channels attracted a total 
share of viewing (SOV) of 22.0% in 2014, the largest audience 
of any UK commercial broadcaster.

In addition to linear broadcast, ITV delivers its content across 
multiple platforms. This is either through ITV Player, now 
available on over 20 platforms including ITV’s website (itv.
com) and pay providers such as Virgin and Sky, or through 
direct content deals with services such as Amazon, Apple 
iTunes and Netflix. 

06

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014OverviewOverview
Investor Proposition
2014 Highlights
ITV at a Glance
Strategy
Business Model
Market Review
Chairman’s Statement

making our content famous on our multiple platforms 
before distributing it around the world, is the right long term 
path for ITV.

While we continue to deliver growth across all parts 
of the Company in the UK and internationally, the 
market environment in which ITV operates is constantly 
changing which brings both challenges and opportunities. 
Convergence in the global media market as well as the 
growing impact of technology are changing the way viewers 
are consuming content, and in turn fuelling greater global 
demand for high quality content.

Therefore, as we enter the next phase of our strategy, we 
have placed increasing emphasis on international content 
creation and distribution. We will also continue to rebalance 
ITV and grow new revenue streams, both organically and 
through acquisition, as we seek new ways to monetise and 
deliver our content on multiple platforms, free and pay.

Our renewed three strategic priorities are therefore a natural 
evolution of our current strategy, focusing on the areas 
where we can achieve most growth, many of which we have 
already started to invest in as we continue to develop a 
creative, commercial and global organisation.

Strategy

We are entering the next phase of our strategy as a 
demonstrably better business than when we set out our 
strategy for growth five years ago. From 2009 to 2014  
external revenue increased 38%, EBITA before exceptional 
items increased over 250% to £730 million and adjusted 
EPS increased by over 650%. Our cash position has also 
consistently improved, up over £650 million, even after 
acquisitions of £328 million, investment across the business 
and shareholder returns of £678 million.

We’ve made good progress rebalancing ITV and reducing 
our dependence on UK advertising revenue, while growing 
and strengthening the business and generating new revenue 
streams. Today, 45% of our total revenue is from sources 
other than traditional spot television advertising. Online, 
Pay & Interactive revenue is growing strongly and is now 
a material and profitable part of the business while our 
international content business, ITV Studios, is now a global 
player of scale with almost half its total revenue generated 
outside the UK. As a result, ITV is now a much stronger 
business, creatively, commercially and financially, with a 
more disciplined approach to cash, costs and operations, and 
a talented and motivated team in place. 

As we continue to execute our strategy, we remain focused 
on our original vision of ITV as an owner and producer of 
world-class content. We are confident that our strategy to 
maximise our value as an integrated producer broadcaster, 

Three key areas for growth

2

Grow
international
content
business 

3

Build a
global pay
and
distribution
business 

Maximise
audience and
revenue
share from
free-to-air
broadcast
and VOD
business 

Continue to develop a creative, commercial and global organisation

07

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITV 
Business Model

ITV’s strategic assets
ITV’s competitive advantage is underpinned by three strategic assets: high quality content, our strong brand and 
our talented, creative people. The value we create from these assets supports our strong balance sheet and cash 
generation, enabling us to continue to invest in their ongoing development. 

Investing in content
•	 Over £1 billion annually in 
programming for multiple 
platforms

•	 Developing and acquiring 

intellectual property (IP) for 
ITV Studios

•	 Financing productions both on 
and off-ITV to acquire global 
distribution rights

Investing in our brand
•	 Building our ITV television and 

main channel brand

•	 Extending that brand to our 
portfolio of channels and 
digital assets to reach all 
demographics

•	 Growing our portfolio of programme 
brands and extending those brands 
beyond the television set

Investing in our people
•	 Developing our creative, on screen, 
commercial and operational talent
•	 Attracting diversity amongst the 
skills, experience and makeup of 
our workforce

•	 Maximising training and 

development opportunities

•	 Driving higher employee 

engagement

Sources of competitive advantage 
As an integrated producer broadcaster we create value from world-class content that we develop, own and distribute around 
the world. The scale of our free and pay platforms and our investment in our programme budget delivers unrivalled 
commercial audiences that drive our advertising revenue. As the UK’s biggest marketing platform our channels also enable 
us to showcase our own content to make it famous, and give it a proven track record, before selling it internationally.

As the demand for proven content continues to grow, we are diversifying and driving new revenue streams. As well as 
developing our online and pay revenue, we have built a global network in the development, production and distribution of 
content. Through investment in our creative pipeline and strategic acquisitions in key creative markets we are building scale 
in our international content business, exploiting programmes and formats that travel. 

Maximise audience and 
revenue share from 
free-to-air broadcast 
and VOD business

Grow international 
content business

Build a global pay and 
distribution business

2

3

08

3

2

World-class
content

UK’s biggest
marketing
platform

Global
distribution 

2

Unrivalled
commercial
audiences

Diverse 
revenue 
streams

3

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Overview 
 
 
Sources of competitive advantage

World-class content
•	 At the core of ITV is our focus on creativity and content, 
whether selling unique content around the world 
or investing in third party content to broadcast on 
multiple platforms.

•	 We benefit from our status as an integrated producer 
broadcaster. By showcasing our own content on our 
platforms we make it famous before distributing it 
around the world.

•	 ITV Studios, the largest UK commercial production 

company, creates content for ITV and other 
broadcasters in the UK.

•	 Internationally we operate in, and have built scale in, 
key global creative markets through organic growth 
and selective acquisitions of content companies with 
attractive IP and creative talent.

•	 In the US, the most valuable content market in the 

world, ITV is now the largest unscripted independent 
producer, and we are growing our scripted content 
business.

Read more on Strategic Priorities 
on pages 22, 26 and 30

32

Global distribution
•	 ITV has built relationships globally, with major networks 
and local broadcasters, and owns the IP to a diverse 
portfolio of shows for international distribution, with 
an emphasis on genres that return and travel, such as 
entertainment and drama.

•	 Our catalogue of finished programmes and formats 
is sold by Global Entertainment which is a leading 
European distributor of television content.

•	 Global Entertainment has a catalogue of over 40,000 
hours of television and film content which we license to 
over 3,000 partners globally.

Read more on Strategic Priorities  2 3   
on pages 26 and 30

Unrivalled commercial audiences
•	 ITV invests in a varied and high quality programme 

schedule, funded mainly by advertising, more than any 
other UK commercial broadcaster. This enables us to 
deliver the largest commercial audiences in the UK.
•	 99% of all commercial audiences over five million are 

on ITV.

Overview
Investor Proposition
2014 Highlights
ITV at a Glance
Strategy 
Business Model
Market Review
Chairman’s Statement

•	 ITV has unique scale and reach in the UK, delivering 

mass audiences on our free and pay platforms across all 
demographics and regions.

•	 In 2014 we attracted 726 million long form video 

requests via online and on demand platforms, including 
ITV Player.

Read more on Strategic Priority  
on page 22

UK’s biggest marketing platform
•	 ITV reaches around 80% of the television owning 
population each week, something that no other 
advertising medium or commercial broadcaster is able 
to do.

•	 We work with advertisers and advertising agencies 
to provide unique commercial partnerships and 
sponsorship opportunities that extend beyond the 
television set, benefiting from our experienced sales 
teams and relationships with advertisers and agencies.
•	 As well as mass audience exposure on our main channel 
we also deliver more targeted audiences on our family 
of channels and ITV Player.

•	 Our new digital channel ITVBe is targeted at a young 

female audience, highly sought after by advertisers, while 
ITV2 and ITV3 are the biggest digital channels in the UK 
and ITV4 reaches a highly valued male audience.

Read more on Strategic Priority  
on page 22

Diverse revenue streams
•	 By developing and retaining the rights to content, ITV 
is able to monetise the value of our current and archive 
content on different platforms.

•	 We earn pay revenue primarily from licensing our 
channels, including ITV Encore, and content to pay 
operators and online video on demand (VOD) services.

•	 We also monetise consumer interaction with our 
biggest shows through competitions and voting, 
thereby increasing viewer engagement.

•	 ITV continues to work to extend our programme brands 
beyond the television set through consumer products 
and live events.

Read more on Strategic Priorities 
on pages 22 and 30

3   

09

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITV  
 
 
ITV is now a genuine global player in non-scripted content, 
being the largest unscripted independent producer in the 
US and a top indie producer in Germany, as well as the 
largest commercial production company in the UK. The large 
independent production companies, such as Endemol Shine 
Group and Fremantle Media, continue to be ITV Studios’ 
main competitors in non-scripted content. 

Broadcast & Online
Advertising revenue
In the UK television has broadly held its share of the overall 
advertising market over the last five years, with a share of 
27.6% in 2014 (2009: 27.5%). Internet advertising has grown 
its share of the UK advertising market from 27.6% in 2009 
to 43.9% in 2014, making the UK one of the most developed 
markets for online advertising. This growth is at the expense 
of press advertising, which declined to 18.3% in 2014, down 
from 34.2% in 2009.

Within the UK television advertising market, we estimate 
ITV’s share of broadcast was 45.9% in 2014, up from 44.7% in 
2009. This demonstrates ITV’s unique position in delivering 
mass audiences.

Within online advertising, display accounts for 32% of 
the total online advertising spend (2013: 30%), with the 
remaining 68% spent on search and classified. ITV competes 
within the display section of this market, providing an 
advertising platform around our online video content.

Television’s share of the 
advertising market

Television 
Press 
Radio 
Cinema 
Outdoor 
Internet 

27.6%
18.3%
2.8%
1.2%
6.2%
43.9%

Source: Advertising Association, January 2015

Market Review

The market environment in which we operate is 
constantly changing. Consolidation of media and 
telecoms companies and the increasing influence of 
technology brings both challenges and opportunities 
that we need to be able to respond to with pace and 
confidence. 

Global Content
Global demand for content continues to grow, with more 
channels, more platforms and new entrants increasing 
spend on high quality programming. This growth can 
be attributed to a number of factors, including a more 
successful international pay television market with more 
channels in more countries; convergence in the television 
market, where telecom and other companies with significant 
financial resources are increasingly competing with 
traditional media companies for content and viewers; new 
online players such as Netflix and Amazon starting to invest 
heavily in archive and new content; and online advertising 
driven platforms like YouTube and Facebook creating a new 
market for short form and digital content. 

The US is by far the largest content market in the world, 
dominating the global production sector, with the UK 
the second largest market. This represents a significant 
opportunity for ITV Studios which has a strong presence in 
both regions. 

Demand for scripted drama, and US scripted drama in 
particular, has increased significantly in the last few years. 
US studios continue to dominate the market for US drama 
with these companies now expanding internationally. ITV 
Studios America is developing a scripted business in the US 
in conjunction with various international partnerships. In the 
UK, where there is still stronger demand and higher viewing 
figures for UK content over imported series, we are a major 
producer of scripted content. 

While not growing as quickly as scripted content, demand 
for non-scripted content remains strong as networks 
continue to require low cost, high volume popular series for 
their programme schedules. The UK remains the dominant 
producer of non-scripted formats, producing almost twice 
as many unique non-scripted formats as the US. Along with 
the established entertainment and factual entertainment 
genres, scripted reality programming, where we have 
focused our recent acquisitions, has grown quickly with 
formats such as Pawn Stars, Real Housewives and Duck 
Dynasty. 

10

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014OverviewTelevision viewing 
Broadcast television viewing around the world has remained 
resilient over the last few years and overall viewing levels 
have remained high. In most territories the major networks 
continue to dominate viewing despite significantly increased 
competition and a proliferation of new devices and delivery 
methods. 

Average television viewing in the UK in 2014 was down 
5% compared to 2013. However, over a longer term basis 
viewing has been resilient despite year on year fluctuations. 
UK average television viewing in 2014 was the same as it  
was ten years ago at 221 minutes per day, compared to  
222 minutes per day in 2004 (source: BARB). 

ITV competes for viewers with the BBC and other commercial 
broadcasters including Channel 4, Sky and Channel 5. Since 
the digital switchover, the number of available channels has 
grown which impacted the SOV of the traditional broadcasters 
in recent years. Despite an increase in the number of channels, 
ITV and BBC1 continue to be the only channels consistently 
able to deliver mass audiences, and in 2014 ITV once again 
delivered 99% of all commercial audiences over five million 
viewers. In 2014 the ITV family of channels received a 22.0% 
SOV, second only to the BBC’s family of channels. 

Share of viewing by broadcaster

ITV Family 
BBC Family 
Channel 4 Family 
Five Family 
Sky Family 
Other 

22.0%
32.9%
10.9%
5.9%
8.3%
20.0%

Source: BARB

Pay television
The platform mix in the UK is roughly 50% free-to-air and 
50% pay. Free-to-air television is delivered through the 
services Freeview, YouView and Freesat, while pay television 
is delivered through the satellite operator Sky and cable 
operator Virgin. 

Pay television revenue continues to grow in the UK in 
aggregate but the market dynamics are changing rapidly as 
established pay television providers such as Sky and Virgin 
come under pressure from relatively new entrants to the 
market such as BT and Netflix. 

Overview
Investor Proposition
2014 Highlights
ITV at a Glance
Strategy 
Business Model
Market Review
Chairman’s Statement

Increasingly homes are supplementing their free television 
with other forms of paid content such as subscription VOD or 
by purchasing additional channels from providers such as BT.

ITV participates in the pay television market, earning revenue 
from various third parties, including Sky and Virgin, through 
the licensing of channels and content. In 2014 ITV launched 
its first pay only television channel, ITV Encore, on the Sky 
platform which joins our other pay channels, ITV2 HD, ITV3 HD 
and ITV4 HD.

Non-linear viewing
Non-linear viewing of long form content is mostly recorded, 
or timeshifted, viewing and catch up of live television (linear 
television). It also encompasses VOD or Over The Top (OTT) 
delivery of other long form content such as box sets and 
movies.

While non-linear viewing has grown fast it still accounts 
for a small proportion of total viewing time. In the UK we 
estimate 83% of all viewing of legal long form content is 
live (including simulcast), with a further 12% timeshifted 
via a Personal Video Recorder (PVR) and watched within 28 
days of the original broadcast date. Of the estimated 5% 
of content viewed on demand, 2% is catch up viewing of 
broadcaster content via the television set or to other devices 
such as tablets and mobiles. The remaining 3% of content 
is other VOD viewing, where viewing of box sets via services 
such as Netflix is replacing viewing of DVDs. This is growing 
quickly driven by increased availability of devices such as 
smartphones, tablets and connected televisions.  

Long form content viewing

Live (including simulcast)  83%
Timeshifted (PVR)
up to 28 days 
12%
VOD: Broadcaster catch up  2%
VOD: Other  

3%

Source: Internal estimates

11

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVChairman’s Statement

Archie Norman
Chairman

“ Behind these top line results have 
been far reaching improvements in 
operations and management style. 
Most importantly, ITV’s creative 
capability and ability to attract 
talent is stronger than ever.”

12

Dear Shareholder
Soon after I arrived at ITV, just over five years ago, we set 
out our transformation programme for ITV. The business 
had suffered a traumatic year in 2009, was burdened with 
expensive debt and very exposed to the advertising cycle. 
Our programme was designed to create a better balanced 
business, capable of international expansion in the context 
of an increasingly digital and interconnected media world.

Under the strong leadership of Adam Crozier and his team 
this programme has been successfully implemented.

As a result, today we have an unrecognisably more profitable 
business. 45% of total revenue comes from sources 
other than free-to-air broadcast advertising, our balance 
sheet has been restored and the business is strongly cash 
generative. Our content business is growing steadily and 
now has a truly international footprint. Our Online, Pay & 
Interactive businesses are growing and profitable and, in our 
UK Broadcast business, relationships with our advertising 
customers have been transformed and we launched new 
channels for the first time in many years.

Behind these top line results have been far reaching 
improvements in operations and management style. Most 
importantly, ITV’s creative capability and ability to attract 
talent is stronger than ever.

The success of the transformation programme provides a 
solid platform for ITV to deliver the next phase of growth. 
As much as the business has changed, so the market for 
television and content is also changing and will continue 
to pose challenges for the traditional television model. It is 
important we have a clear eyed view of how the changing 
landscape will affect our business. Already we are seeing 
shifts in viewing habits as more people watch content on 
multiple devices and catch up and, as connected television 
becomes more commonplace, new global viewing platforms 
are emerging. With our very strong content portfolio and the 
power of the integrated producer broadcaster model, these 
developments provide opportunities for ITV but, undeniably, 
they also present a continued imperative for change.

For all these reasons we have set out in this report very 
clear strategic priorities for the next phase of development. 
This will include sustaining investment in our UK Broadcast 
flagship, continuing to develop the new Online and 
Pay businesses, and growing international content and 
distribution. Most importantly, ITV is becoming an increasingly 
international business, drawing on top creatives and 
producers from across Europe and the USA. Underpinning this 
next phase is the strength of our management team which 
we continue to build across all geographies. 

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014OverviewOverview
Investor Proposition
2014 Highlights
ITV at a Glance
Strategy 
Business Model
Market Review
Chairman’s Statement

Selective acquisitions have and will continue to be an 
important part of this strategy. Our objective is to build 
a global network of outstanding content businesses and 
talent and we have already built a large scale presence in 
unscripted production in the US. However, all acquisitions 
bring with them management challenges and financial risk 
and therefore we have put in place clear financial criteria 
and a rigorous programme of due diligence overseen by the 
Audit Committee and ultimately the Board.

At Board level our philosophy is to maintain a small Non-
executive team, closely engaged with the business and 
supportive of the management team, whilst embracing the 
principles of transparency and open debate. Last year Dame 
Lucy Neville-Rolfe joined Her Majesty’s Government and 
we congratulate her on her important new role: she leaves 
with our thanks for her valuable contribution. Mary Harris 
has joined the board and brings new qualities from her 
consulting background and extensive board experience.  

With the strength of our balance sheet and cash flows we 
are now able to reward shareholders with a progressive 
increase in the dividend, and a special dividend to return 
capital not required for investment in the growth of the 
business. Our approach is to maintain an efficient balance 
sheet that allows us flexibility for further investment. 
Therefore, while we will look to increase our leverage over 
time we remain conservative, mindful of the technology 
risks faced by the industry and the volatility of the 
advertising market.

Finally, probably more than any other business of our scale in 
the UK, we are a people and talent business. The people we 
employ and the talent who work with us define our product. 
It is their efforts that have made us successful and I want to 
say a big “thank you” to them on behalf of the Board.

Archie Norman  
Chairman

Pictured: 
Broadchurch returned for a 
second series at the beginning 
of 2015. The series averaged 9.2 
million viewers and a 30% share.

13

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVChief Executive’s Review

ITV delivered another strong performance in 2014 building 
on the significant progress we have made rebalancing, 
strengthening and growing the business. We have recorded 
double digit profit growth for the fifth consecutive year 
reflecting growth across all areas of the business.

It’s been five years since we launched our strategy for 
growth and, despite challenging economic conditions 
and the rapidly changing media landscape, performance 
has improved in every part of the business. Since 2009, 
ITV external revenue has increased 38%, EBITA before 
exceptional items is up over 250% to £730 million and we 
have increased adjusted EPS over 650% and basic EPS by 
over 400%. Our cash position has also significantly improved, 
enabling us to deliver attractive shareholder returns, with 
over £650 million cash returned over five years, while 
continuing to invest for further growth.

Group external revenue growth

8%
YoY

0
9
5
2

,

9
8
3
2

,

  3 8 %   I n c r e a s e   o n   2 0 0 9    

£m
2,750

2,500

2,250

2,000

1,750

1,500

9
7
8
1

,

09

0
4
1
2

,

6
9
1
2

,

4
6
0
2

,

10

11

12

13

14

EBITA before exceptionals (EBITA)

£m
800

600

400

200

0

2 6 1 %     I n c r e a s e   o n   2 0 0 9    

3
1
5

2
6
4

8
0
4

18%
YoY

0
3
7

0
2
6

2
0
2

09

10

11

12

13

14

Adam Crozier
Chief Executive

Growing a creative, 
commercial and 
global organisation

“ We have recorded double digit 
profit growth for the fifth 
consecutive year reflecting growth 
across all areas of the business.”

14

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and OperationsITV today is a much stronger business, creatively, 
commercially and financially and we’ve made good  
progress on revenue diversification as we have rebalanced 
the business away from our dependence on UK spot 
advertising. Our international content business, ITV Studios, 
is now a global player of scale, with almost half its revenue 
generated outside the UK, and we will continue to grow  
the business both organically and through targeted 
acquisitions in key creative markets. Our Broadcast business 
remains robust and continues to deliver unrivalled audience 
reach for advertisers, while Online, Pay & Interactive revenue 
is growing strongly and is now a material and profitable  
part of the business.

As we continue to execute our strategy, we remain focused 
on our original vision of ITV as an owner and producer of 
world-class content. We will continue to rebalance the 
business and grow new revenue streams and there will be 
increasing emphasis on international content creation and 
distribution. Our renewed strategic priorities are therefore 
a natural evolution of our current strategy, focusing on the 
areas where we can achieve most growth:

Maximise audience and revenue share from  
free-to-air broadcast and VOD business

2 Grow international content business

3 Build a global pay and distribution business

We are confident that by maximising our value as an 
integrated producer broadcaster and making our content 
famous on our multiple platforms before distributing it 
around the world, we will continue to deliver strong growth 
in the UK and internationally.

Delivering value from investment  
in quality content
In 2014 we grew external revenue by 8% to £2,590 million, 
reflecting 6% growth in NAR to £1,629 million (2013: £1,542 
million) and over £100 million growth in non-NAR to  
£1,327 million (2013: £1,211 million), up 10%. We have 
remained disciplined in our cost control, with the result  
that Group EBITA before exceptional items increased 18% 
to £730 million (2013: £620 million), corresponding to an 
improved EBITA margin of 28% (2013: 26%). Overall we have 
delivered another strong performance, with adjusted EPS  
up 23% to 13.8p (2013: 11.2p), and basic EPS up 40% to  
11.6p (2013: 8.3p).

Strategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority   1
Strategic Priority   2
Strategic Priority   3

Non-NAR revenue growth

10%
YoY

7
2
3
1

,

1
1
2
1

,

  5 6 %   I n c r e a s e   o n   2 0 0 9    

6
3
0
1

,

2
2
9

0
5
8

9
2
8

£m
1,500

1,250

1,000

750

500

09

10

11

12

13

14

Adjusted EPS

  6 6 7 %   I n c r e a s e   o n   2 0 0 9    

.

1
9

9
7

.

4
6

.

8
1

.

p
14

12

10

8

6

4

2

0

23%
YoY

.

8
3
1

.

2
1
1

09

10

11

12

13

14

Broadcast & Online revenue was up by £127 million or 7% 
to £2,023 million (2013: £1,896 million), with EBITA before 
exceptional items increasing 17% to £568 million (2013: 
£487 million). The advertising market showed continued 
improvement in 2014 with good growth across the major 
categories. NAR was up 6% over the full year, reflecting our 
best outperformance of the UK advertising market for five 
years. 

Over the year we also strengthened the ITV Family with 
the launch of our first new channels in almost a decade. 
ITV Encore, a new pay channel, has been on screen since 
June, while ITVBe, a free-to-air channel targeted at a young 
female demographic, launched in October. 

15

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVChief Executive’s Review continued

X
E
R
/
I
P
B
/
h
g
u
o
r
o
b
n
e
e
u
Q
n
e
B

:

t
i
d
e
r
C
o
t
o
h
P

ITV Family SOV declined 5% in 2014, following a strong year 
in 2013 when we were up 4%. This largely reflects a 4% 
decline in the ITV main channel SOV. Although benefitting 
from the World Cup in June, the main channel delivered a 
lower audience share against strong competition from the 
BBC. ITV2 also contributed to the decline, partly as a result of 
more competition from new UK digital channels in the year, 
but also due to our repositioning of the channel to provide 
more targeted audiences for our advertisers through the 
launch of ITVBe. We remain focused on improving viewing 
performance, both on screen and online. 

Significant further progress in  
rebalancing the business and driving 
new revenue streams
Online, Pay & Interactive is an increasingly important, 
profitable and high margin part of the business. Revenue 
increased 30% in 2014 driven by growth in Online as we 
further improved the quality, reliability and distribution of 
ITV Player, as well as strong growth in Pay as we develop new 
revenue streams.

ITV Studios also continues to perform well as we build scale 
in attractive content markets. Total revenue increased 9% 
in 2014 to £933 million (2013: £857 million) reflecting our 
purchase of Leftfield Entertainment (Leftfield) as well 
as growth in international production and distribution. 
Following this acquisition, ITV is now the largest unscripted 
independent production company in the US and an 
increasingly international business with almost half of 
ITV Studios revenue generated outside the UK. In 2014 
we delivered a 22% increase in ITV Studios EBITA before 
exceptional items to £162 million (2013: £133 million).

Pictured: 
Left: England’s World Cup match against Uruguay on ITV was the most 
watched programme on any channel in 2014, peaking with 20.3 million 
viewers and averaging a 67% audience share.

Right: The eighth series of ITV Studios drama Lewis averaged 6.1 million 
viewers and a 23% audience share. Lewis has sold to more than 150 countries.

16

Clear opportunities for further investment 
while increasing shareholder returns
Over the last five years we have considerably improved 
ITV’s balance sheet efficiency and in 2014 we continued to 
demonstrate strong profit to cash conversion, generating 
£478 million free cash (2013: £433 million) before investment 
and capital returns to end the year with net cash of £41 million 
(31 December 2013: £164 million).

Cumulative cost efficiency savings

£m
150

125

100

75

50

25

0

£133m
Cumulative
Total

5
1

8
2

0
3

0
2

0
4

09

10

11

12

13

14

Reflecting our confidence in the ongoing growth and cash 
generation of the business, the Board has committed to 
growing the full year ordinary dividend by at least 20%  
per annum for three years to 2016, by when we will achieve 
a dividend cover of between 2.0 and 2.5 times adjusted 
earnings per share. In line with this policy, the Board is 
proposing a final dividend for 2014 of 3.3p, which equates to 
a full year dividend of 4.7p (2013: 3.5p), up 34%.

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and Operations 
 
 
Strategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority   1
Strategic Priority   2
Strategic Priority   3

ITV is now a more balanced business with strong underlying 
cash flows. As we enter the next phase of our strategy 
we continue to see investment opportunities to grow the 
business and enhance shareholder value but at the same 
time the Board recognises the importance of maintaining 
capital discipline and balance sheet efficiency. Therefore it is 
appropriate over time to increase our balance sheet leverage 
gradually while retaining the flexibility to continue to invest. 

In line with this approach, the Board is proposing a £250 
million return to shareholders by way of a special dividend of 
6.25p.

Dividend per share

p
12

10

8

6

4

2

0

Ordinary
Special  

  1 0 . 9 5 p   I n c r e a s e   o n   2 0 0 9    

0
4

.

6
2

.

12

6
1

.

11

09

10

46%
YoY

5
2
6

.

.

7
4

0
4

.

5
3

.

13

14

Remaining responsive to a 
changing media environment
While the market environment in which we operate is 
constantly changing, it is clear that there continues to 
be a strong global demand for high quality content. ITV 
is capitalising on this demand as we further diversify our 
revenue streams through our investment in creative talent 
and production and through our unique ability to distribute 
content across multiple platforms, both free and pay.

We are also aware that viewers, especially the younger 
generation, are increasingly changing the way they consume 
content. The digital revolution has dramatically increased 
the number of devices and platforms on which content 
is viewed, and Online is now one of the fastest growing 
businesses within ITV. In response, we continue to invest in 
the quality and accessibility of ITV Player, available on over 
20 platforms, as well as seeking new ways to monetise and 
distribute our content.

At the same time, although VOD is growing rapidly, viewing 
of broadcaster and other VOD still only accounts for around 
5% of total viewing of long form content. On average 
viewers still spend 221 minutes per day watching television, 
the same as in 2004 (2004: 222 minutes), with the majority 
of content still watched live. Unlike any other medium, 
television has the power to bring audiences together and 
live television in particular has demonstrated resilience and 
a growing relevance as viewers increasingly connect through 
social media.  

Television also remains the most efficient and effective 
way for brands to achieve mass simultaneous reach. ITV is 
the biggest marketing platform in the UK, reaching around 
80% of the television owning population every week and 
providing access to 99% of all commercial audiences over 
five million. As a result our family of channels continues to be 
in high demand from advertisers, and the significant profit 
and cash generated from our advertising revenue means 
that our Broadcast business remains central to our strategy. 

Proportion of all commercial audiences 
delivered by ITV

%
100

95

90

85

80

75

0
0
1

0
0
1

9
9

9
9

0
0
1

9
9

4
9

3
9

6
9

5
9

0
9

0
9

09

10

11

12

13

14

Over 3m viewers        Over 5m viewers

In our view, technological advances in the availability and 
delivery of content will serve to support overall viewing time 
growth as we provide our viewers with access to a wider 
range of sought after content. ITV is well positioned to 
benefit from our commercial scale, the growing demand for 
high quality content, and the way we are able to maximise 
our revenue from the delivery and distribution of that 
content.

17

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVChief Executive’s Review continued

Confident in delivering further 
strong growth in 2015 and beyond
We expect to deliver another strong performance in 2015 with 
continued revenue growth across all parts of the business. 

The television advertising outlook remains positive with the 
economic recovery driving advertising growth. ITV Family 
NAR is expected to be up 11% in the first quarter of 2015 
and up 4-7% in April and, based on our estimates, we expect 
to outperform the television advertising market again over 
the full year. We remain focused on improving SOV and we 
will continue to invest in our programme schedule in 2015 
to support a full year of our new channels as well as overall 
viewing performance on screen and online. 

New dramas in 2015 include Jekyll and Hyde, Home Fires, 
Arthur and George and we’ll also have the return of Doc 
Martin, Downton Abbey and Vera as well as the launch of 
Thunderbirds Are Go. Although we are disappointed that we 
will no longer hold the live rights for the Champions League 
from autumn, we still have a strong sporting schedule in 
2015 including exclusive rights to the Rugby World Cup. 

Online, Pay & Interactive revenue will continue to grow 
strongly as we further improve the distribution of our 
content, capitalising on the growing demand for VOD. We 
will continue to invest in ITV Player and look to grow the 
level of interaction and engagement with our viewers while 
at the same time exploring new pay services, such as ITV 
Encore. 

In 2015 we expect ITV Studios again to deliver around £100 
million of revenue growth on a constant currency basis, with 
a return to good organic growth supported by a full year of 
the acquisitions we completed in 2014. We will start to see 

18

the benefit of our investment in scripted content and we 
will look to continue to develop our pipeline through further 
investment in creative talent and content. 

Overall, we see clear opportunities for further investment 
across the business and, benefitting from our strong 
financial position and cash conversion, we are confident in 
delivering continued growth while improving shareholder 
returns. The media landscape is changing rapidly and we 
increasingly expect growth to come from international 
content creation and our online, pay and distribution 
operations.

To ensure we maximise the value of our investment in 
high quality content, in the medium term we will continue 
to drive the debate around the implementation of 
retransmission fees in the UK, in particular the repeal of 
legislation that currently prevents us from having a normal 
commercial negotiation with the pay television platforms.

We are confident that ITV’s financial strength and its 
strategic advantages including the scale of our UK channels, 
our unrivalled commercial audience reach, our growing 
global network in the development, production and 
distribution of content, as well as the quality of our people, 
places us in a strong position to continue to develop and 
grow the business.  

Pictured: 
Left: Emmerdale averaged 6.7 million viewers over 
2014 and a 32% share.

Right: The X Factor averaged 9.0 million viewers over 
its 34 episodes and reached over 40 million viewers.

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and OperationsStrategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority   1
Strategic Priority   2
Strategic Priority   3

Building a responsible business that 
benefits all stakeholders
The success of our strategy depends not just on our 
operational efficiency, but also on the way we interact 
with our stakeholders, the wider community and the 
environment. Our responsibility strategy is positioned at 
the heart of everything we do with the aim of building a 
responsible and sustainable business.

We ensure we are a responsible broadcaster by adhering 
to our legislative and regulatory requirements. In addition, 
we recognise that our actions and our reach can influence 
society and have an impact on our reputation. We 
therefore work to identify issues that are material to ITV 
and matter to our stakeholders, helping us to manage 
reputation risk as well as leverage our audience reach to 
benefit our communities.

In 2014 we introduced the Social Partnership, which has 
integrated key areas of corporate responsibility into 
our commissioning process to ensure our priorities are 
reflected in the companies who make programmes for our 
schedule.  

Read more Content online at itvresponsibility.com/ 
social-partnership

Our responsibility priorities:
Our responsibility strategy is focused around three 
priorities: inclusiveness, community and environment. 

Inclusiveness 
To continue our success as an integrated producer 
broadcaster, attracting the largest possible audiences, we 
need to ensure that our on screen talent and workforce 
reflect our own and our viewers’ communities, that our 
services and programmes are accessible and that our 
workplace is inclusive. 

Our progress will be measured through the continued 
collation of workforce, programme and services data to help 
monitor and drive activity around this agenda. ITV is also 
a key partner in a pan-industry project to standardise the 
collation of diversity information from across the industry. 

Data around our workforce profile can be found on our 
website. As at 31 December 2014, women made up 51% of 
our workforce (31 December 2013: 51%).

Gender split

Board of Directors

Senior managers*

Male

7

14

Female

87.5%

70.0%

1

6

All employees†

2,544

48.8%

2,673

12.5%

30.0%

51.2%

*  Of the six female senior managers, five were directors of consolidated 

Group companies. 

†  Employee gender split based on total headcount at the end of 2014.

More broadly, we use United Nations human rights 
frameworks as guiding principles to ensure the welfare of 
our employees in the UK and internationally and, in 2014, 
ITV was the first UK broadcaster to be accredited as a Living 
Wage employer meaning anyone employed or contracted 
by ITV via a third party organisation will receive the Living 
Wage as a minimum.

Community
We want our stakeholders to speak positively about our 
brand and recognise the contribution we make to society 
and communities. We strive to tackle social topics in an 
authentic way, alongside specific appeals and campaigns, 
where we leverage our reach to raise awareness, recruit 
volunteers or raise money for charity.

In 2014 the public gave over £12 million for charitable 
causes in direct response to our on-air appeals, such as Text 
Santa. We also inspire our viewers to take part in social 
action campaigns, and through these and our appeals ITV 
also dedicated valuable airtime to raising awareness and 
promoting the services of our charity partners.

Environment 
Across our business, we rely on energy and often depend 
on the resources of local communities to help in the 
production and broadcast of programmes. Our aim is to 
be considerate in our actions, reduce waste and promote 
efficiency. For example, we now utilise 100% green energy 
in all buildings owned by ITV.

Read more Content on our greenhouse gas disclosures on page 65

2015 and beyond
More examples and data relating to our commitment and 
progress against our three responsibility priorities can be 
found on our dedicated responsibility website as well as 
within the Directors’ report.

Read more Content online at itvresponsibility.com

19

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVPerformance Dashboard

Maximise audience and 
revenue share from 
free-to-air broadcast 
and VOD business

2

Grow international 
content business

Milestones achieved
•	 ITV NAR growth of 6%, our best outperformance of the 

UK advertising market in five years

Milestones achieved
•	 ITV Studios’ share of ITV main channel output 

increased to 60%

•	 Share of broadcast up to 45.9% in 2014 (2013: 45.4%)
•	 Innovative sponsorship and brand extension 

partnerships with advertisers

•	 Launched new free-to-air channel ITVBe providing a 

more targeted female demographic for our advertisers

•	 ITV2 and ITV3 largest digital channels
•	 Long form video requests up 26%
•	 Further improved quality and reach of ITV Player
•	 8.0m registered users of ITV Player, up 129% in 2014
Focus for 2015
•	 Economic recovery driving advertising growth
•	 Improve on screen viewing in key demographics
•	 Strengthen our content, channels and brand to 

maintain our unique scale

•	 Grow our share of total television and VOD advertising
•	 Continue to drive new revenue streams through 
sponsorship, interactivity and brand extensions
•	 Support platforms that make ITV content prominent
•	 Further invest in the quality and distribution of  

ITV Player

Key Performance Indicators
•	 ITV Family SOV
•	 ITV Family SOCI
•	 ITV Family share of broadcast
•	 Total long form video requests

•	 13% growth in off-ITV production revenue in the UK
•	 Continued investment in creative pipeline with 5,700 
hours of original content produced and delivered
•	 Completed three acquisitions including Leftfield, our 

biggest acquisition to date

•	 Now the largest unscripted independent producer in 

the US

•	 Almost half of ITV Studios revenue generated outside 
the UK with 24% growth in international production 
revenue 

•	 Three US scripted series in production
Focus for 2015
•	 Continue to develop IP in key creative markets to 

exploit growing worldwide demand

•	 Maximise the use of our strong cash flows to finance 
the production of high profile dramas that return and 
travel

•	 Over time build a portfolio with six to ten new scripted 

series per annum 

•	 Develop more 16 to 24 focused content
•	 Attract and retain key creative talent 
•	 Continue to look at acquisitions
Key Performance Indicators
•	 Number of new commissions for ITV Studios
•	 Percentage of ITV output from ITV Studios

Read more on Strategic Priority  1  on page 22

Read more on Strategic Priority  2  on page 26

20

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and Operations 
 
Strategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority   1
Strategic Priority   2
Strategic Priority   3

Build a global pay and 
distribution business

3

Key Performance Indicators 
across all three priorities
Our Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) align our performance 
and accountability to our strategy of continuing to develop 
a creative, commercial and global organisation. Five KPIs 
measure the Group’s operational and financial performance 
across all three priorities:

EBITA before exceptional items

Adjusted EPS

Profit to cash conversion

Non-NAR revenue

Employee Engagement

Read more on our KPIs on page 34

Pictured: 
The third series of Paul O’Grady: For the 
Love of Dogs averaged 4.7 million viewers 
and a 20% share. Its most watched episode 
attracted 5.4 million viewers.

Milestones achieved
•	 Grew pay revenue by 63%
•	 Launched ITV Encore, our first pay only channel which 

was profitable from day one

•	 Announced new deal with Sky and extended Virgin 

deal for another year

•	 Continuing to trial direct to consumer pay 

opportunities 

•	 Invested in three digital content businesses: Believe, 

Indigenous and Zealot 

•	 Invested in Cirkus, a subscription VOD service for the 

Nordics

•	 Launched 12 YouTube channels focusing on short form 

content

•	 A leading European distributor of content with Mr 

Selfridge, Lewis and Hell’s Kitchen US sold to over 150 
countries

•	 12 formats sold to three or more countries
Focus for 2015
•	 Explore new models for content creation
•	 Develop new pay services and channels to take 

advantage of demand in the UK and internationally 
•	 Consider wider partnerships with OTT / VOD players
•	 Secure retransmission fees in the medium term
•	 Scale international distribution business
•	 Invest in developing third party distribution deals
•	 Package and sell our content to maximise its value
Key Performance Indicators
•	 Number of new commissions for ITV Studios
Read more on Strategic Priority  3  on page 30

21

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITV 
Strategic Priority

Maximise audience and 
revenue share from 
free-to-air broadcast 
and VOD business

ITV has unique scale, delivering 99% of all commercial 
audiences over five million. We invest over £1 billion annually 
in our programming, significantly more than our commercial 
competitors, and have an unrivalled ability to deliver mass 
audiences across all demographics for our advertisers. This 
scale and the strength of our brand underpin the success of 
our free-to-air and on demand platforms. 

Robust broadcast business remains 
central to our strategy
While the media environment is changing rapidly, our 
broadcast business has performed consistently well over 
the last few years and has generated significant profit and 
cash, supported by our strong programme schedule, tight 
cost control and a sustained recovery in the UK advertising 
market. Since 2009 we have maintained our market leading 
position as the only commercial broadcaster consistently 
able to deliver mass audiences to our advertisers, and over 
this period we have grown our share of broadcast from 
44.7% to 45.9% in 2014.

During this time, traditional linear television viewing has 
remained resilient, despite significant changes in the availability 
and delivery of content. Average television viewing is the 
same as it was ten years ago, at 221 minutes per person per 
day compared to 222 minutes in 2004, and the majority of 
viewing is still live. The viewer experience has been improved by 
a greater choice of channels and greater flexibility in delivery, 
fuelling demand for high quality content that has the power to 
engage and bring audiences together. 

Television remains the most efficient and effective way for 
brands to achieve mass simultaneous reach and ITV, as the 
biggest marketing platform in the UK, continues to be in high 
demand from advertisers. In 2014, ITV Family NAR grew by 6% 
with growth across the major categories, supporting our best 
outperformance of the advertising market for five years. 

In addition to the ITV main channel delivering mass 
audiences we also deliver targeted audiences to our 
advertisers through our digital channels. ITV4 had a strong 
year in 2014 attracting male audiences, which are hard to 
reach, with live sport and movies. ITV2 and ITV3 remain the 
largest digital channels in the UK and our ambition is to have 
the most watched, most loved and most talked about family 
of channels for every household and every advertiser in  
the UK. 

Our portfolio was further strengthened in the year by the 
launch of ITVBe in October, targeted at a young female 
audience and now the home to The Only Way Is Essex. This 
enabled us to reposition ITV2 for a more targeted younger 
audience who remain an important part of our commercial 
proposition as we look to grow our viewing and revenue 
share across all demographics.

Ongoing focus on improving 
viewing performance
Our family of channels provides an important platform to 
make ITV content famous before exploiting it internationally. 
We therefore remain very focused on improving on screen 
performance to ensure we continue to deliver mass audiences 
through standout content that underpins our brand.

22

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and OperationsITV Family share of broadcast

Maintaining our  
market leading  
position
Share of broadcast increased in 
the year as we benefitted from the 
World Cup and our consistent ability 
to deliver highly demanded mass and 
target audiences to our advertisers.

Read more on NAR on page 40

Long form video requests

Strong demand for  
ITV VOD
Long form video requests were 
up 26% in 2014, supported by an 
improved ITV Player interface and 
increased distribution and reach of 
our VOD content.

%
46

45

44

43

42

41

40

m
800

600

400

.

8
5
4

.

4
5
4

.

9
5
4

.

2
5
4

.

3
5
4

.

7
4
4

09

10

11

12

13

14

  3 8 4 %   I n c r e a s e   o n   2 0 0 9    

26%
YoY

6
2
7

7
7
5

6
9
4

6
0
4

Read more on our Online business
on page 25

200

0
5
1

3
7
2

0

09

10

11

12

13

14

Over £1 billion 
invested in 
programming for our

family of channels 21% 
growth 

in Online revenue

Over 750k
tickets sold 
to live events
in 2014

ITV Player

launched on new platforms in 2014 
including Windows Phone 8, Sky Go, 
Now TV, Roku and Amazon Kindle 
Fire. Now available on more than 20 
platforms

Strategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority    1
Strategic Priority      2
Strategic Priority      3

In 2014 ITV broadcast the most 
watched programme of the year with 
the England v Uruguay World Cup 
match, the most watched soap with 
Coronation Street, the most watched 
new drama with Cilla and the most 
watched entertainment programme 
with Britain’s Got Talent

8 million

registered users of ITV Player
up 129% since 2013

99% 

of all commercial
audiences over   
five million in 2014 
were delivered by ITV

ITV2 and ITV3 
are the UK’s two 
largest digital
channels

22% share
of viewing
for the ITV Family
in 2014

23

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITV 
Strategic Priority 

 continued

ITV Family SOV declined 5% in 2014, following a strong year 
in 2013 when we were up 4%. This largely reflects a 4% 
decline in the ITV main channel SOV. Although benefitting 
from the World Cup in June, the main channel delivered a 
lower audience share against strong competition from the 
BBC. ITV2 also contributed to the decline, partly as a result of 
more competition from new digital channels in the year, but 
also due to our repositioning of the channel to provide more 
targeted audiences for our advertisers through the launch 
of ITVBe. ITV Family SOCI was down 5%, with the ITV main 
channel down 6%.

Despite this, we still enjoyed some real successes this year, 
airing the most watched programme of 2014 with the 
England vs Uruguay World Cup match, as well as the most 
watched entertainment show with Britain’s Got Talent, the 
most watched comedy with Birds of a Feather and the most 
watched new drama with Cilla. 

Other notable successes have included The X Factor, I’m A 
Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night 
Takeaway, Grantchester, Prey, Vera and Downton Abbey. 

Our core schedule, which underpins the ITV brand, also 
continues to perform well. Coronation Street was again the 
most watched soap of the year, averaging 8.4 million viewers 
in 2014. Overall, ITV continues to gain strong recognition for 
the quality of our programming and calibre of our talent. In 
2014 we won 101 awards including eight BAFTAs. 

As we look ahead to 2015 we remain focused on improving 
SOV. While still drawing strong audiences, some of our most 
successful shows are maturing. We will therefore continue 
to rejuvenate our schedule, creatively and commercially, 
increasing our investment in high quality content and seeking 
new ways to maximise the value of our airtime.

Pictured: 
Coronation Street is the UK’s most watched 
soap, averaging 8.4 million viewers per 
episode in 2014. 2014 also saw the launch 
of the highly successful Coronation Street 
set tour in Manchester, which attracted over 
400,000 visitors.

24

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and OperationsStrategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority    1
Strategic Priority      2
Strategic Priority      3

Capitalising on the growing 
demand for VOD
Changes in technology and the growing base of connected 
devices are supporting a rapid growth in audiences’ appetite 
for VOD, which in turn is fuelling demand from new and 
existing platforms for high quality content and from 
advertisers for VOD inventory. ITV, as the creator and owner 
of content, particularly highly sought after long form drama 
content, is well placed to exploit this growing customer base.

Our Online business has grown strongly over the last few 
years, with growth in online viewing driving revenue up 21% 
in 2014. ITV Player, through which audiences can access ITV 
on different devices, is now contributing meaningful revenue 
to the Group.

Since launch, there have been over 16.5 million downloads 
of the ITV Player app and in 2014 we improved its interface, 
enhancing the user experience by making the most popular 
content more prominent. We also relaunched our Android 
and iOS apps in the year to improve the delivery of live 
streaming content.

There was continued strong growth in long form video 
requests in 2014, up 26%. We have been working to increase 
the distribution and reach of our content and ITV Player is 
now available on over 20 platforms having launched on a 
number of new platforms in 2014, including Windows Phone 
8, Sky Go, Now TV, Roku and Amazon Kindle Fire. 

Additionally, with eight million users of ITV Player now 
registered, up 129% year-on-year, we continue to explore 
how we can maximise the value of our digital data. Not only 
will this enable us to understand and communicate with 
our audiences better but we are also looking at integrating 
targeting into the advertising server to enable more 
addressable online advertising.

Maximising the value of our airtime
We are continually working to maximise the value of the 
30 second advertising spot and drive new revenue streams 
through sponsorship, interactivity and brand extensions. 
We helped a number of brands implement successful 
sponsorship campaigns and off-air endorsements in 2014 
including Littlewoods with I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out Of 
Here!, Dolmio with Saturday nights on ITV, Pets At Home 
with Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs and Morrisons with 
Britain’s Got Talent and Saturday Night Takeaway. 

Along with our unique commercial partnerships, ITV 
exclusively broadcast the premiere of Sainsbury’s Christmas 
advertising campaign as well as broadcasting an entire 

advertising break recreating existing television adverts in 
LEGO in partnership with Warner Bros. We are also offering 
advertisers the opportunity to extend campaigns beyond 
the television spot as the first broadcaster to partner with 
Twitter Amplify.

We continue to seek new ways to build more value from 
our brands through various initiatives to increase consumer 
engagement. Over 40 million votes were cast for The X 
Factor in 2014, with the new free app driving significantly 
higher engagement. We are also continuing to extend our 
brands into off-air experiences, selling over 750,000 tickets 
in the year for live events such as Ant & Dec’s Takeaway 
On Tour, The Big Reunion Boyband tour and the successful 
Coronation Street set tour. In addition, in 2014 there were 
over 900,000 combined downloads of our Tipping Point and 
The Chase mobile apps.

2015 and beyond
As the viewing and advertising landscape continues to 
fragment, the scale of audience delivered by our biggest 
shows on the ITV family of channels becomes increasingly 
valuable. 

Our priority for 2015 is therefore to improve our on screen 
performance, strengthening our content, channels and 
brand to maintain ITV’s unique scale. As a result, we have 
invested in our programme schedule for the year across the 
premium genres of drama, entertainment and sport as well 
as special events around our 60th anniversary. 

New dramas in 2015 will include Arthur and George, The 
Forgotten, Safe House and Jekyll and Hyde, while we have 
a number of new and returning entertainment shows 
including Newzoids, Eternal Glory and Saturday Night 
Takeaway. Additionally, Thunderbirds Are Go, our children’s 
drama, merchandising and licensing initiative, will be 
broadcast in spring 2015.

Although we are disappointed that we will no longer hold the 
live rights for the Champions League from the autumn, we still 
have a strong sporting schedule in 2015 with exclusive rights 
to the Rugby World Cup, England qualifiers and friendlies, the 
French Open and Tour de France in the year. 

Overall, despite our viewing performance being down in 
2014, strong advertising momentum has continued into 
the start of 2015 and the television advertising outlook 
remains positive. ITV Family NAR is expected to be up 11% in 
Q1 and up 4-7% in April. Our Broadcast business will benefit 
from a full year of our new channels and online revenue will 
continue to grow strongly as we further improve the quality 
and distribution of ITV Player.

25

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVStrategic Priority

Grow international 
content business

Growing a strong international content business is 
central to our strategy as an integrated producer 
broadcaster. As ITV creates and owns more content, 
our channels provide a platform to showcase our 
programmes before distributing them across multiple 
platforms in the UK and internationally.

Building scale in attractive markets
The strong global demand for high quality content from 
broadcasters and platform owners provides a significant 
opportunity for ITV Studios. Our strategy is to capitalise 
on this demand by growing our international production 
presence, building scale in attractive production markets 
and developing IP in creative markets that has the ability to 
travel the world. 

The US and UK are the dominant creative markets, with 
the US the largest exporter of scripted content and the UK 
the world leader for exported formats. Over the last three 
years, ITV has built significant scale in both markets on the 
back of organic growth and 11 acquisitions. We are building 
real momentum as we continue to invest in a strong and 
healthy creative pipeline, focusing specifically on genres that 
return and travel, namely drama, entertainment and factual 
entertainment.

As a result, we have cemented our position as the number one 
commercial producer in the UK. We are already the largest 
unscripted independent producer in the US as well as a top 
indie in Germany and a growing player in the Nordics. 

Expanding our creative production pipeline
Our focus in the next phase of our growth strategy is on 
leveraging the scale we have in our current markets to grow 
our market share and expand the number of global networks 
and OTT players we work with, especially in the US. 

ITV now has a strong portfolio of successful series and 
formats that are returning year after year and can be 
distributed globally. We are looking to expand our portfolio 
across a more diverse range of programming genres, 
particularly long-running scripted series that appeal to 
the international market. In addition to formats produced 
in-house we are growing our portfolio by partnering with 
new creative talent who are attracted to our independent 
status outside of the UK, our distribution capability and 
strong network relationships, and we are also acquiring and 
investing in third party IP.

Benefitting from the Group’s strong financial position, cash 
generation and global distribution we are also retaining 
more IP by producing drama straight to series in the UK and 
US. Although more expensive than producing a pilot, this 
helps attract high profile talent to a production and raises 
the profile of the series to support its distribution. The 
production cost is partly funded by pre-selling the series to 
a network, while the remainder, the ‘deficit’, is covered by 
revenue from the international distribution of the finished 
product. As our portfolio grows, we will have a number of 
shows at different stages of the production cycle thereby 
balancing our financial exposure at any one point in time.

26

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and OperationsStrategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority      1
Strategic Priority    2
Strategic Priority      3

International production revenue

Now a global player  
of scale
We delivered 24% growth in 
international production revenue 
in 2014 with US revenue up by 34% 
and revenue for the rest of the 
world up 4%.

Read more on ITV Studios revenue
on page 42

£m
350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

  1 3 9 %   I n c r e a s e   o n   2 0 0 9    

24%
YoY

0
3
3

6
6
2

1
7
1

1
4
1

8
3
1

6
0
1

09

10

11

12

13

14

Percentage of ITV* output from ITV Studios

Growing our internal 
creative capability  
Making more commissions from 
ITV Studios famous on our multiple 
platforms before distributing 
them around the world.

* Excludes ITV2, 3 and 4

Read more on 
page 37

%
60

55

50

45

40

0
6

9
5

8
5

5
5

3
5

0
5

09

10

11

12

13

14

ITV Studios US now generating 
141 programmes 
and 884 hours 
of content annually in 
partnership with 45 networks

Upcoming deliveries of
programming in 2015 include 

Thunderbirds
Are Go

and 3 US scripted dramas

Largest unscripted
independent
producer of content

in the US

149 

new commissions in 2014 
up from 121 in 2013

sold to 3 or more countries

12 formats
36 formats
sold internationally

1,200 

episodes of new series delivered

and over 5,000
episodes of recommissions

149 

ITV Studios 
content won 
5 BAFTAs 
in the year

Three 

acquisitions in 2014,
with 11 acquisitions in 
total since 2012

5,700 

hours of original
content produced and delivered 
in 2014

27

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITV 
  
 
Strategic Priority 

 continued

Investing to build an international business
Our acquisitions to date have been focused on factual and 
scripted reality producers in the US and UK, the two key 
markets with a track record for creating and owning IP. We 
are looking for companies with a solid financial and creative 
track record as well as a strong pipeline. By maintaining this 
strict acquisition criteria, ITV has become a top global player 
in non-scripted production.

In 2014 we made three acquisitions as we look to continue 
to diversify our revenue streams and increase our reach. 
In February we acquired a 51% controlling interest in DiGa 
Vision (DiGa), a US independent producer of reality and 
scripted programming, and 100% of United Production 
(United), a Danish producer of factual and entertainment 
programmes.

In May we made our largest acquisition to date, purchasing 
80% of Leftfield Entertainment, a high margin US producer 
of reality programmes, for an initial cash payment of 
$360 million. Leftfield also owns Sirens Media and has 
established two joint ventures, Loud Television and Outpost 
Entertainment. Together the group produces more than 
300 hours of unscripted programming for over 30 US 
networks with a portfolio that includes Pawn Stars, American 
Restoration and The Real Housewives of New Jersey.

These businesses add to our growing portfolio of production 
companies acquired over the last three years which have 
included Gurney Productions, High Noon Entertainment and 
Thinkfactory Media in the US, The Garden Productions, Big 
Talk Productions and So TV in the UK, as well as Tarinatalo 
and Mediacircus in the Nordics.

We are also looking to develop joint ventures with key creative 
talent, such as our scripted drama and comedy partnership 
with Marty Adelstein which launched Tomorrow ITV Studios 
in 2014. More recently, we announced a new entertainment 
label within ITV Studios, Possessed Television, in partnership 
with Glenn Hugill.

Number one commercial 
producer in the UK
Local content in the UK continues to drive the largest 
audiences and, as an integrated producer broadcaster, ITV is 
well placed to benefit from this demand. 60% of the total 
spend on original commissions on the ITV main channel is 
now with ITV Studios, up from 50% in 2009. 

In 2014, ITV Studios total UK revenue was up 1% to £459 
million (2013: £456 million) with growth impacted by the 
proportion of the ITV Broadcast programme budget allocated 
to the FIFA World Cup. This reduced the available spend on 
internal drama and entertainment shows in the year. However, 
during the year we continued to grow the number of shows 
that return and travel with 2014 recommissions for ITV 
including Mr Selfridge, Saturday Night Takeaway and Big 
Star’s Little Star. 

Off-ITV we delivered new series of The Graham Norton Show 
and In It To Win It for the BBC, and Come Dine With Me and 
24 hours in A&E for Channel 4.

We continue to receive strong recognition for the quality 
of our programming and calibre of our talent and won five 
BAFTAs for our content in 2014.

Top international indie producer
Our international production business is growing strongly, 
with revenue up 24% to £330 million (2013: £266 million)  
in 2014. 

We are now the largest unscripted independent producer 
in the US, generating 141 programmes and 884 hours of 
content in 2014 in partnership with 45 networks. US revenue 
increased 34% to £235 million in 2014 (2013: £175 million) 
reflecting the acquisition of Leftfield and the longevity 
and international appeal of our successful returning series. 
In response to network demand, we have built a strong 
portfolio of high volume formats and shows that return 
year after year. Examples delivered in 2014 included Hell’s 
Kitchen USA, Pawn Stars and Duck Dynasty.

Our other international bases in Germany, France, Australia 
and the Nordics produce their own original formats 
alongside UK formats. International revenue increased 4% 
in 2014 to £95 million (2013: £91 million) driven by good 
organic growth in Germany and France. Germany benefitted 
from commissions in the year which included Quizduell, 
series eight of Ich Bin Ein Star (the German version of I’m a 
Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!), Hell’s Kitchen and Mini Beiz, 
Dini Beiz while France benefitted from Four Weddings and 
Party Wars. Other international successes delivered during 
the year included The Chase in Norway, Keeping the Nation 
Alive in Norway and Denmark, and Big Star’s Little Star in 
Finland.

Pictured: 
Texas Rising is co-produced by ITV Studios, with Global 
Entertainment holding the global distribution rights.

28

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and OperationsStrategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority      1
Strategic Priority    2
Strategic Priority      3

2015 and beyond
We look ahead to 2015 with confidence as the production 
lead times give us good visibility of our upcoming deliveries. 
We expect ITV Studios again to deliver around £100 million 
revenue growth on a constant currency basis reflecting a 
return to good organic growth, helped by our investment in 
global scripted content and supported by a full year of our 
2014 acquisitions. As ever, ITV’s revenue growth will not be 
spread evenly throughout the year because of the phasing 
of the delivery schedule required by our network and cable 
customers.

New commissions to be delivered in 2015 will include 
dramas Jekyll and Hyde, Home Fires and the relaunch of 

Thunderbirds Are Go in the UK, I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out 
Of Here! in Australia and Saturday Night Takeaway in the US. 
While our drama production has historically been focused on 
the UK market, we are growing our scripted presence in the 
US and have three large scale dramas, Aquarius, Texas Rising 
and The Good Witch that will go straight to series in 2015. 

Longer term, leveraging our network relationships and 
global scale in production and distribution, our strategy is 
to have an ongoing portfolio with six to ten international 
scripted series in production per annum. We will also look 
to accelerate growth through further acquisitions while 
working to attract and retain key creative talent to ensure 
our creative pipeline remains strong. 

29

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVStrategic Priority

Build a global pay and 
distribution business

As digital media and consumer viewing behaviour 
continue to evolve, our ability to create and distribute 
high value content in new and efficient ways is of 
increasing significance. ITV is continually exploring, 
experimenting and developing our pay services with 
broadcasters and platform owners while also seeking 
new opportunities to extend the reach of our content for 
the consumer. 

Exploring new models for  
content creation
As the way in which our viewers consume content changes, 
especially amongst the younger generation, we are growing 
our exposure to new types of content including short form 
and younger-focused long form programming. In 2014 we 
agreed a deal with YouTube to launch a number of short 
form channels including I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of 
Here!, The Chase and our soaps.

We are also building a presence in international digital 
production. Our acquisition of US producer DiGa in the first 
half of 2014 gave ITV exposure to digital formats.

Following this, in 2014 we have made three further 
investments in the digital arena as we look to develop 
greater expertise in monetising online audiences. In 
September 2014 we made small investments in Indigenous 
Media, a producer of scripted digital content, and Believe 
Entertainment Group, a producer of digital-branded short 
form entertainment. Most recently, in December 2014 
ITV made an investment in Zealot, a digital content multi-
platform network founded by Danny Zappin, former CEO of 
YouTube multi-channel network Maker Studios. 

Generating new sources of pay revenue
ITV earns revenue from pay television through licensing our 
channels and content. In 2014 Pay revenue grew by 63% as 
we negotiated and renewed a number of deals. 

Most significantly, in January 2014 we announced a new 
four-year deal with Sky, which makes ITV content available 
through Sky’s range of connected platforms including 
Sky+HD, Sky Go, Now TV and Sky Store. This deal included our 
first ever pay only channel, ITV Encore, which we launched in 
June. Additionally in 2014, we extended our deal with Virgin 
for another year covering HD versions of ITV2, ITV3 and ITV4 
as well as our new FTA channel ITVBe, and signed several 
other deals including new deals with BT and TalkTalk.

30

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and OperationsOnline, Pay & Interactive revenue

Now a material and 
profitable part of the 
Group 

Reflects strong growth in  
Online and Pay as we further 
diversify our revenue streams.

Read more on Online, Pay & 
Interactive Revenue on page 41

Invested in
three digital
content businesses:
Believe, Indigenous
and Zealot

63% 

growth in  
Pay revenue

£m
160

140

120

100

80

60

40

  2 0 6 %   I n c r e a s e   o n   2 0 0 9    

30%
YoY

3
5
1

8
1
1

2
0
1

8
5

1
8

0
5

09

10

11

12

13

14

Launched 12
YouTube  
channels in 2014
with ten  

following in 2015

Global Entertainment  
is a leading
European
distributor of
television content

Investment 
in Cirkus 

a subscription VOD service

Mr Selfridge, Lewis  
and Hell’s Kitchen US
sold to over
150 countries

Strategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority      1
Strategic Priority      2
Strategic Priority    3

Global  

Entertainment 
revenue up 7% to

£144m

In June 2014 
we launched 
our new pay
television channel
ITV Encore

profitable from day one

A library of over 
40,000 

More information on Global 
Entertainment can be found at  
www.itvplc.com

4 year deal 
with Sky 

to make ITV content available through
Sky’s platforms including 
Sky+HD, SkyGo, Now TV and Sky Store

31

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITV 
 
 
 
 
Strategic Priority 

 continued

We are also looking to develop wider partnerships with on 
demand players as consumer demand for VOD continues 
to grow. For example, in the year we made an investment in 
Cirkus, a UK-based subscription VOD service that offers the 
‘best of British’ television content to pay television platforms 
and their customers across the Nordic region. 

There remains scope to grow our UK pay revenue further 
through extensions of our existing propositions as we 
experiment with new ways of monetising our content. 

Past initiatives have included: trialling pay opportunities 
on ITV Player for episode premieres of programmes; our 
ad-free subscription ITV Player app on iOS which has been 
well received; and, most recently we made the first series 
of the comedy Cockroaches available exclusively online 
one week ahead of its broadcast, intended to enhance 
viewer awareness and engagement with the show’s young 
audience. We will continue to trial new sources of pay 
revenue as we further develop our pay strategy. 

Pictured:
Mr Selfridge returned for a second series in January 
2014 with a series average of 6.3 million viewers and  
a 23% share. The third series started airing in 2015.   
Mr Selfridge has been sold to over 150 countries. 

32

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Strategy and OperationsStrategy and Operations
Chief Executive’s Review
Performance Dashboard
Strategic Priority      1
Strategic Priority      2
Strategic Priority    3

A leading European 
distributor of television content
ITV Studios, through Global Entertainment, has a substantial 
archive of over 40,000 hours of television and film that 
we distribute to broadcasters around the world. This is 
predominantly ITV produced programming, with 2014 
successes including Hell’s Kitchen US, Mr Selfridge and Lewis 
which have all been sold to over 150 countries. 

2015 and beyond
Overall, looking ahead we expect continued good growth 
in pay revenue as we develop further new ways to package 
and sell our content to take advantage of demand in the 
UK and internationally. We will benefit from a full year of 
ITV Encore and we will continue to explore new pay services 
and channels while growing our exposure to new types of 
content, including digital.

We are benefitting from the growth in our UK and 
international production businesses as well as deeper 
network relationships as we build scale. In 2014 Global 
Entertainment increased revenue by 7% to £144 million 
(2013: £135 million). 

In addition to distributing ITV’s own content, we are adding 
to our catalogue through the distribution of third party 
content. In 2014 we acquired the third party distribution 
rights to a number of international dramas including Schitt’s 
Creek from Canada, Jordskott from Sweden and Poldark 
from Mammoth in the UK.

Global Entertainment also continues to license ITV and third 
party formats successfully. The number of UK formats sold 
internationally to three or more countries has increased 
from eight in 2013 to 12 in 2014 including I’m A Celebrity... 
Get Me Out Of Here!, Saturday Night Takeaway, The Chase 
and Tricked.

However, while Global Entertainment has a stable core of 
long-running series for international distribution, it takes 
time for the creative pipeline of production to reach its full 
value potential. The business’s available inventory naturally 
expands as we produce and acquire new content and in 2015 
we expect to see good growth in our distribution revenue 
from our strong creative pipeline, our investment in scripted 
content, and further third party distribution agreements.

Global Entertainment remains well positioned for growth as 
we expand our inventory in 2015. In addition to our existing 
programme and format archives, we will have new content 
available for distribution including our three new US dramas 
as well as the benefit of Thunderbirds Are Go which has 
already sold to countries including the UK, Australia, New 
Zealand and Israel.

Lastly, to ensure we maximise the value of our investment 
in high quality content, we will continue to drive the debate 
around the implementation of retransmission fees in the 
UK. In 2015 we will continue efforts to change the terms of 
UK and EU policy debate around the issue and support our 
argument with strong evidence, such as the Nera report 
we commissioned on the USA’s retransmission consent 
scheme. We will build on existing support in both the House 
of Commons and the House of Lords in the next Parliament 
and continue our conversations with the regulator, Ofcom, to 
make the case that we should be fairly compensated by the 
major pay TV platforms in return for access to the content 
on the ITV main channel.

Pictured:
Left: Aquarius, produced by Tomorrow ITV Studios in the US, is a new 13 part 
drama starring David Duchovny. It is due to air on NBC in 2015.

Right: Jordskott, a contemporary Nordic thriller, is distributed by Global 
Entertainment.

33

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVKey Performance Indicators

We have defined our KPIs to align 
our performance and accountability 
to our strategy.

These KPIs are the key measures of 
success and cover all three strategic 
priorities. Following the renewal of 
our strategic priorities our KPIs remain 
unchanged. 

EBITA before  
exceptional items

Adjusted EPS

Related Priority

Related Priority

2 3

2 3

Definition
This is the key profitability measure 
used across the whole business. 
Earnings before interest, tax and 
amortisation before exceptional 
items (EBITA) reflects our 
performance in a consistent manner 
and in line with how the business is 
managed and measured on a day-
to-day basis.

Performance
In 2014 EBITA increased by £110 
million or 18%. This increase was a 
result of the 8% increase in Group 
external revenue which was driven 
by a 6% increase in net advertising 
revenue, a 30% increase in Online, 
Pay & Interactive revenue and a 34% 
increase in US productions within 
ITV Studios. We continued to retain 
tight control over our cost base, 
delivering a further £15 million of 
cost savings in 2014.

Group EBITA margin once again 
increased, up to 28% from 26% in 
2013.

Definition
Adjusted EPS represents the adjusted 
profit for the year attributable to 
equity shareholders. Adjusted profit 
is defined as profit for the year 
attributable to equity shareholders 
before exceptional items, impairment 
of intangible assets, amortisation of 
intangible assets acquired through 
business combinations, net financing 
cost adjustments and other tax 
adjustments.

It reflects the business performance 
of the Group in a consistent manner 
and in line with how the business is 
managed and measured on a day-
to-day basis.

Performance
Adjusted EPS increased by 23% 
or 2.6p to 13.8p. This reflects 
the increase in EBITA before 
exceptionals of 18%, and a reduction 
in adjusted financing costs.

£m
800

600

400

200

0

2
0
2

0
3
7

.

0
2
2
1
6
1

3
1
5

2
6
4

8
0
4

p
14

12

10

8

6

4

0

.

8
3
1

.
.

2
2
1
1
1
1

.

1
9

9
7

.

4
6

.

8
1

.

09

10

11

12

13

14

09

10

11

12

13

14

Our Strategic Priorities

Maximise audience and 
revenue share from 
free-to-air broadcast 
and VOD business

2

Grow international 
content business

3

Build a global pay and 
distribution business

Read more on Strategic Priorities on 
pages 22–33

34

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and Financials 
 
Performance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Profit to cash 
conversion

Employee  
engagement

ITV Family SOV

Related Priority

Related Priority

Related Priority

2 3

2 3

Definition
Profit to cash conversion represents 
the proportion of EBITA converted 
into a measure of adjusted cash flow 
(defined as cash generated from 
operations before exceptional items 
less cash related to the acquisition 
of operating property, plant and 
equipment and intangible assets).

This primarily reflects our working 
capital management and capital 
expenditure control. Our aim is to 
keep profit to cash conversion as 
high as possible.

Performance
Profit to cash has been maintained 
at a strong level in excess of 90%. 
The ratio was lower than 2013 as a 
result of the increased investment in 
scripted content in 2014 which will 
continue in 2015.

Definition
Continuing to develop a creative, 
commercial and global organisation 
requires high quality employees 
who are engaged in the work that 
they do, and are committed to the 
strategy.

Employee engagement measures 
pride in the work we do, pride in 
working for ITV and also what we 
say about our programmes  and 
services.

Performance
Employee engagement was once 
again high at 90%. Although this is 
slightly below 2013’s rate of 91% it 
is still well above benchmarks. The 
participation rate was 80%, also 
above the benchmark rate.

Definition
Strategic Priority 1 aims to maximise 
audience share from our existing 
free-to-air broadcast business, 
and ITV Family SOV is the clearest 
indicator of this. ITV Family SOV 
is ITV’s share of the total viewing 
audience over the year achieved 
by ITV’s family of channels as 
a proportion of total television 
viewing, including the BBC Family. 
ITV aims at least to maintain the ITV 
Family SOV.

Performance
Following a strong 2013, ITV 
Family SOV declined by 5% in 
2014 to 22.0%. Within this, the 
ITV main channel saw a decline 
of 4%, impacted by the strong 
performance of the BBC. The digital 
channels were also down, with ITV2 
contributing most significantly 
to the decline as a result of more 
competition from new UK digital 
channels in the year, but partly also 
due to our repositioning of the 
channel to provide more targeted 
demographics for our advertisers 
through the launch of ITVBe.

.

1
2
7
1
1
1

7
2
1

%
180

160

140

120

100

80

60

3
0
1

7
9

.

2
7
9
1
1

1
9

%
100

90

80

70

60

50

5
7

5
6

1
9

0
9

8
8

5
8

%
24

23

22

21

20

.

1
3
2

.

1
3
2

.

9
2
2

.

1
3
2

.

3
2
2

.

0
2
2

09

10

11

12

13

14

09

10

11

12

13

14

09

10

11

12

13

14

35

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITV 
 
 
Key Performance Indicators continued

ITV Family SOCI

ITV Family share of 
broadcast

Total long form  
video requests

Related Priority

Related Priority

Related Priority

Definition
Strategic Priority 1 aims to maximise 
audience share from our existing 
free-to-air broadcast business, 
and ITV Family SOCI is another key 
indicator of this. SOCI is the trading 
currency in the television advertising 
market, and since it only covers 
commercial television it does not 
include the BBC. This is the share 
of total UK television commercial 
impacts which is delivered by ITV’s 
family of channels. An impact is one 
viewer watching one 30 second 
commercial. We aim to maximise 
our SOCI.

Performance
After holding SOCI flat in 2013 
ITV Family SOCI was down 5% in 
2014, with the main channel down 
5%. Within the digital channels a 
strong performance from ITV4 was 
offset by a decline for ITV2 as we 
repositioned the channel to provide 
more targeted demographics for 
our advertisers through the launch 
of ITVBe.

Definition
ITV’s share of UK television 
advertising revenue is known as its 
share of broadcast. To maximise 
revenue from our free-to-air 
business, which is a key component 
of Strategic Priority 1, we aim to 
continue to maximise our share of 
broadcast and to outperform the UK 
television advertising market.

It is getting increasingly difficult 
to measure the total television 
advertising market as all 
broadcasters have different 
definitions and include sources 
of revenue other than pure spot 
advertising. Our share of broadcast 
is based on our estimate of the pure 
spot advertising market.

Performance
ITV share of broadcast increased 
to 45.9% in 2014, and we saw our 
strongest outperformance of 
our estimate of the UK television 
advertising market for five years. 

Definition
A key part of our strategy is to 
maximise audience share from 
our free-to-air broadcast and VOD 
business.  

Long form video requests is a 
measure of the total number of our 
videos viewed across all platforms 
on which ITV Player is available and 
therefore provides a key measure of 
how much of our content is being 
viewed online. 

A long form video is a programme 
that has been broadcast on 
television and is available to watch 
online and on demand in its entirety. 

Performance
Long form video requests were up 
26% in 2014 to 726 million views. 
The growth rate in 2014 accelerated, 
up from 16% growth in 2013. 
Growth in long form video requests 
continued to be driven by mobile 
and tablet viewing.  

.

0
0
4

.

8
9
3

.

5
9
3

.

3
8
3

.

3
8
3

.

2
6
3

%
47

46

45

44

43

42

.

8
5
4

.

4
5
4

.

9
5
4

.

2
5
4

.

3
5
4

.

7
4
4

m
800

600

400

200

0
5
1

3
7
2

0

6
2
7

7
7
5

6
9
4

6
0
4

09

10

11

12

13

14

09

10

11

12

13

14

09

10

11

12

13

14

%
40

30

20

10

0

36

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and Financials 
 
 
Performance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Non-NAR  
revenue

Number of new 
commissions for ITV Studios

Percentage of ITV* output 
from ITV Studios

Related Priority

Related Priority

Related Priority

2 3

2 3

2

Definition
Growing non-NAR is key to the 
strategy as we aim to rebalance the 
business away from our reliance on 
television advertising revenue. Non-
NAR includes all ITV revenue, both 
internal and external, except NAR. 

Key drivers of non-NAR are the 
growth in Online, Pay & Interactive 
and ITV Studios, particularly 
international.

Performance
Non-NAR revenue increased by 
10% in 2014 as we continue to 
rebalance the business away from a 
reliance on NAR. Growth was driven 
by international Studios revenue, 
including the acquisition of Leftfield 
in the US, and from Online and Pay 
revenue. 

Definition
A key indicator of the creative 
renewal pipeline is the number 
of new commissions won. This 
figure includes programmes 
shown both on ITV and on other 
broadcasters, and both in the UK 
and internationally.

Performance
There was strong growth in the 
number of new commissions for 
ITV Studios in 2014, up 23% to 149. 
69 of these new commissions have 
come from the UK business, with 
the remaining 80 coming from our 
international businesses. 

Definition
This represents the proportion 
of the total spend on original 
commissions on ITV transmitted in 
the year, delivered by ITV Studios. 
A key part of building a strong 
international content business is 
to increase ITV Studios’ supply of 
programmes to ITV, where we aim 
to make them famous and then sell 
them around the world, benefitting 
from our integrated producer 
broadcaster status.

* Excludes ITV2, 3 and 4.

Performance
The percentage of ITV output from 
ITV Studios has continued to grow 
in 2014, up from 59% in 2013 to 
60% in 2014. This improvement was 
driven by an increase in factual and 
entertainment programming. 

£m
1,500

1,250

1,000

750

500

7
2
3
1

,

1
1
2
1

,

6
3
0
1

,

2
2
9

0
5
8

9
2
8

No.
160

150

140

130

120

110

100

90

80

9
4
1

1
2
1

1
1
1

3
0
1

%
60

55

50

45

40

0
6

9
5

8
5

5
5

3
5

0
5

09

10

11

12

13

14

11

12

13

14

09

10

11

12

13

14

37

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITV 
 
 
Financial and Performance Review

We have delivered another strong performance in 2014, with 
revenue growth in all parts of the business. Together with 
our relentless focus on cash and costs, we are reporting our 
fifth consecutive year of double digit profit growth and end 
the year with a strong balance sheet providing the flexibility 
to invest for further growth in 2015 and beyond.

Twelve months to 
31 December

NAR
Total non-NAR 
Total revenue
Internal supply
Total external supply

2013
2014
£m
£m
1,542
1,629
1,211
1,327
2,753
2,956
(364)
(366)
2,590 2,389

Change
£m
87
116
203
(2)
201

Change
%
6
10
7
1
8

EBITA before exceptionals
Group EBITA margin
Adjusted EPS
Adjusted diluted EPS
Dividend per share
Special dividend
Year end net cash

620
730
26%
28%
11.2p
13.8p
10.8p
13.7p
4.70p 3.50p
6.25p 4.00p
164

41

110

18

2.6p
2.9p
1.20p
2.25p
(123)

23
27
34
56
(75)

The profit before tax and EPS from the Consolidated Income 
Statement are as follows:

Twelve months to 
31 December

Profit before tax
EPS
Diluted EPS

2014
£m

605
11.6p
11.5p

2013
£m

435
8.3p
8.1p

Change
£m

Change
%

170
3.3p
3.4p

39
40
42

Total ITV revenue increased 7% in 2014 to £2,956 million 
(2013: £2,753 million), with external revenue up 8% at £2,590 
million (2013: £2,389 million). This reflects 6% growth in NAR 
and another year of strong growth in non-NAR, up 10% to 
£1,327 million (2013: £1,211 million) as we further rebalanced 
the business. Non-NAR now accounts for 45% (2013: 44%) of 
total revenue.

Ian Griffiths
Group Finance Director

Another year of 
strong growth in all 
parts of the business

“ As we enter the next phase of 
our strategy we continue to see 
investment opportunities to 
grow the business and enhance 
shareholder value.”

Pictured: 
Left: Celebrity Squares with Warwick Davis averaged 2.9 
million viewers and an 11.6% audience share. 

Right: New series The Keith Lemon Sketch Show on ITV2 
attracted 1.6 million viewers for its first episode.

38

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and FinancialsPerformance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Non-NAR revenue tracker

EBITA before exceptionals

5
3

5

7
8

2
2
-

7
2
3
1

,

£m
1,350

1,300

1,250

1,200

1,150

1
1

1
1
2
1

,

Dec 13

Studios
Organic

Studios
Acqui-
sitions

Online,
Pay &
Interactive

Other
Broadcast
Non-NAR

FX
Impact

Dec 14

Together with our higher margin new revenue streams and 
disciplined cost control we delivered 18% growth in EBITA 
before exceptionals to £730 million (2013: £620 million), 
corresponding to an improved EBITA margin of 28% (2013: 
26%). Overall, adjusted EPS was up 23% to 13.8p. 

Through our ongoing focus on cost control and working 
capital management, we delivered £15 million of cost 
savings while remaining strongly cash generative. Our profit 
to cash conversion ratio remained strong at 91%, despite 
significant investment in scripted programming. We also 
continued to take steps to improve balance sheet efficiency, 
and bought back a further £62 million of debt in the year 
to reduce our financing costs. Even after three acquisitions, 
increased dividend payments and our pension deficit 
contributions, we ended 2014 with net cash of £41 million 
(2013: £164 million). 

5
1

3
3

7
8

3
3

8
1
-

5
-

0
3
7

5
3
-

0
2
6

£m
760

720

680

640

600

Dec 13

NAR

Network
Schedule

Online, Pay,
Interactive
and Other
Broadcast
Non-NAR

ITV
Studios

Net 
Cost
Savings

Investments

FX
Impact

Dec 14

The Financial and Performance Review focuses on the 
adjusted results which, in management’s view, reflect the 
underlying performance of the business, providing a more 
meaningful comparison of how the business is managed 
and measured on a day-to-day basis. The adjusted results 
are reconciled to the reported results in the EPS section that 
follows. 

Adjusted profit before tax and EPS remove the effect 
of items including acquisition related costs, impairment 
of intangible assets, amortisation of intangible assets 
acquired through business combinations, net financing cost 
adjustments, restructuring costs and other tax adjustments.

39

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial and Performance Review continued

Broadcast & Online revenue tracker
£m
2,050

9

4
-

3
2
0
2

,

5
3

7
8

2,000

1,950

1,900

1,850

6
9
8
1

,

Dec 13

NAR

Online,
Pay &
Interactive

Sponsorship
& 
Brand
Extensions

Other
Non-
NAR

Dec 14

Overall, we increased our share of broadcast to 45.9% (2013: 
45.4%) and delivered our strongest outperformance of the 
UK advertising market in five years, based on our estimate 
of the pure spot market. ITV NAR increased 6% compared to 
5% growth in the market, although it is increasingly difficult 
to measure the market as all broadcasters use different 
definitions, which may include additional sources of revenue 
as well as pure spot advertising. Advertising growth was 
geared towards the second quarter with increased spend 
around the World Cup and, while we expect to outperform 
the advertising market again in 2015 there will be 
fluctuations across the year driven by major events such as 
the Rugby World Cup and the timing of Easter. 

ITV Family SOV declined 5% in 2014, following a strong year 
in 2013 when we were up 4%. This largely reflects a 4% 
decline in the ITV main channel SOV. Although benefitting 
from the World Cup in June, the main channel delivered a 
lower audience share against strong competition from the 
BBC. ITV2 also contributed to the decline, partly as a result of 
more competition from new UK digital channels in the year, 
but also due to our repositioning of the channel to provide 
more targeted audiences for our advertisers through the 
launch of ITVBe. We remain focused on improving viewing 
performance, both on screen and online.

Broadcast & Online
Twelve months to  
31 December

NAR
SDN external revenue
Online, Pay & Interactive
Other commercial income
Broadcast & Online non-
NAR revenue
Total Broadcast & Online 
revenue
Total schedule costs
Other costs
Total Broadcast & Online 
EBITA before exceptional 
items
EBITA margin

2014
£m
1,629
71
153
170

2013
£m
1,542
71
118
165

Change
£m
87
–
35
5

Change
%
6
–
30
3

394

354

40

2,023
(1,018)
(437)

1,896
(983)
(426)

127
(35)
(11)

11

7
4
2

568
28%

487
26%

81

17

2014 advertising category analysis

Retail 
20%
Entertainment & Leisure 
11%
Finance 
9%
Food 
8%
Cosmetics & Toiletries 
7%
Cars & Car Dealers 
5%
Airlines, Travel & Holiday 
5%
Telecommunications     
  5%
Publishing & Broadcasting   4%
Household Stores 
3%
Other 
23%

Broadcast & Online delivered another strong performance 
with revenue up £127 million to £2,023 million (2013: £1,896 
million) driven by 6% growth in NAR and continued strong 
growth in Online, Pay & Interactive revenue.

The advertising market showed continued improvement 
in 2014 with good growth across the major advertising 
categories. Retail sales were again strong, driven by 
increased competition in the food retail sector as well as 
growth in furniture and department stores. Entertainment & 
Leisure also performed well, with increased advertising and 
promotions around the World Cup. Within Food there was 
good growth in the drinks, beverages and cooking product 
categories, while within Airlines, Travel & Holiday there was 
growth from online travel agents. Telecommunications 
remained down in the year due to lower new product 
launches following a strong year in 2013.

40

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and FinancialsPerformance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Online, Pay & Interactive revenue

£m
160

140

120

100

8
1
1

2013

4

0
2

3
5
1

1
1

Online
& On
Demand

Pay &
Distribution

Interactive

2014

Online, Pay & Interactive revenue increased 30% to £153 
million (2013: £118 million), driven by £11 million growth in 
Online and £20 million growth in Pay. In 2014 we further 
improved the quality, reliability and distribution of ITV 
Player, now available on over 20 platforms, which supported 
continued strong growth in long form video requests, 
up 26%. We also continued to develop our pay services, 
renewing a number of deals in 2014 as well as launching ITV 
Encore, our first pay only channel. Interactive revenue was up 
£4 million due to higher income from competitions. 

Pictured: 
Left: Britain’s Got Talent was the most watched entertainment 
series in 2014 on any channel with a series average of 10.3 million 
viewers. 

Right: Prey averaged an audience of 7.2 million viewers over its three 
parts with an audience share of 26%.

SDN external revenue, which is generated from licence sales 
for DTT Multiplex A, was in line with 2013 at £71 million. In 2014 
the full year benefit of the 13th video stream, which launched 
in 2013, was offset by lower renewal fees on existing video 
streams, a trend likely to continue. 

Other commercial income increased 3% to £170 million 
(2013: £165 million), reflecting growth in sponsorship and 
brand extensions as we build more value from our airtime 
for both advertisers and for ITV. For example, in 2014 we sold 
over 750,000 tickets for events including the Coronation 
Street set tour and the Saturday Night Takeaway live tour. 

Other commercial income also includes revenue from media 
sales, which relates to commission earned by ITV on sales 
of airtime for the non-consolidated licensees, as well as 
minority revenue from these licensees for ITV content. Both 
delivered revenue in line with last year.

Schedule costs were up £35 million year on year to £1,018 
million (2013: £983 million) as a result of the World Cup 
and also increased programming spend relating to our new 
channels. In 2015 we will continue to focus on our schedule to 
improve viewing share,  investing in high quality content for our 
existing channels as well as a full year of programming for our 
new channels.

Other costs increased modestly, up 2% year on year, due to 
marketing costs around our new channels as well as online 
investment. We continue to manage our overheads tightly 
to mitigate inflationary pressures and fund continued 
investment in the business.

Overall, reflecting the strong growth in higher margin 
Online, Pay & Interactive revenue, as well as good growth in 
our highly geared advertising revenue, Broadcast & Online 
EBITA before exceptional items was up 17% at £568 million 
(2013: £487 million) while the EBITA margin increased 2% to 
28%.

41

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial and Performance Review continued

ITV Studios
Twelve months to  
31 December
Studios UK
Studios US
Studios RoW
Global Entertainment
Total Studios revenue
Total Studios costs
Total Studios EBITA 
before exceptional items
Studios EBITA margin

2014
£m
459
235
95
144
933
(771)

2013
£m
456
175
91
135
857
(724)

Change
£m
3
60
4
9
76
(47)

Change
%
1
34
4
7
9
6

162
17%

133
16%

29

22

including Jekyll and Hyde, Home Fires, The Trials of Jimmy 
Rose and Beowulf as well as Thunderbirds Are Go.

Studios US revenue was up 34% in 2014 to £235 million 
(2013: £175 million), reflecting our acquisition of Leftfield. 
Organic revenue was up 5% in the year and we expect good 
organic growth to continue in 2015. We now have a strong 
portfolio of successful series and formats that are returning 
year after year including The Real Housewives of New Jersey, 
Pawn Stars and Duck Dynasty, and we will start to see the 
benefit of our investment in US drama in 2015, with three 
large-scale dramas, Aquarius, Texas Rising and The Good 
Witch, all due for delivery in the year.

Twelve months to  
31 December
Sales from ITV Studios to 
Broadcasting & Online
External revenue
Total Studios revenue

2014
£m

366
567
933

2013
£m

Change
£m

Change
%

364
493
857

2
74
76

1
15
9

In 2014 we again delivered strong revenue growth in ITV 
Studios as we continue to build scale in attractive content 
markets. Total revenue increased 9% to £933 million (2013: 
£857 million) reflecting our purchase of Leftfield and growth 
in international production and distribution as we become a 
more global business. Total organic revenue, which excludes 
our current and prior year acquisitions as well as foreign 
exchange movements, was up 1%. A decline in Studios UK 
was offset by organic growth from international productions 
and Global Entertainment. 

Almost half of Studios revenue is now generated outside of 
the UK and, as well as being the number one commercial 
producer in the UK, we are also now the largest unscripted 
independent producer in the US and a leading European 
distributor of television content.

Studios UK revenue was up 1% in the year and within this, 
internal revenue was also up 1%. However, organic revenue 
was down 4% as growth in factual and daytime was more 
than offset by a reduction in drama, due to the proportion 
of the ITV Broadcast programme budget allocated to the 
World Cup.

In the year we successfully delivered further recommissions 
as we continue to grow the number of shows in our portfolio 
that return and travel. On-ITV deliveries in 2014 included Mr 
Selfridge, Saturday Night Takeaway, Judge Rinder and The 
Chase. Off-ITV deliveries included The Graham Norton Show 
and Our Zoo for the BBC, and Come Dine With Me and 24 
Hours in A&E for Channel 4. In 2015 we also expect a return 
to good organic growth from our upcoming new UK dramas, 

42

ITV Studios total revenue tracker

4
1

9
6

2
2
-

3
3
9

£m
950

900

850

800

2
1

8
1

7
5
8

5
1
-

Dec 13

Organic
UK
Produc-
tions

UK
Acqui-
sitions

Organic
Inter-
national
Productions

Inter-
national
Acqui-
sitions

Global
Entertain-
ment

FX
Impact

Dec 14

Revenue from Studios RoW increased 4% to £95 million 
(2013: £91 million), reflecting our acquisition of United 
Productions in Denmark as well as good organic growth, up 
7% at constant currencies. In Germany programme deliveries 
included Hell’s Kitchen, Quizduell and Mini Beiz, Dini Beiz, and 
in France programme deliveries included Party Wars, Four 
Weddings and Saturday Night Takeaway. Other international 
successes delivered across our global production network 
included The Chase in Norway and Big Star’s Little Star in 
Finland. 

Global Entertainment revenue was up 7% to £144 million 
(2013: £135 million) in 2014. We continue to benefit from the 
growth in our UK, US and RoW businesses as well as deeper 
network relationships as we build scale. 

Pictured: 
The Widower averaged 7.5 million viewers and was the 
second most watched new drama on any channel in 2014.

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and Financials 
Performance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Successes in the year included Hell’s Kitchen US, Lewis and 
Mr Selfridge, which have all sold to over 150 countries. 
Additionally, 12 of our formats are now produced in three or 
more countries including I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!, 
The Chase, Keeping The Nation Alive, Surprise Surprise and 
Saturday Night Takeaway. 

As we grow our international business, foreign exchange 
movements increasingly impact our reported performance. 
On a constant currency basis, which assumes exchange rates 
remained consistent with 2013, ITV Studios revenue in 2014 
would have been £22 million higher, and EBITA would have 
been £5 million higher.

While Global Entertainment has a stable core of long-running 
series, its available inventory naturally expands as we produce 
and acquire new content. In 2015 we expect to see good 
growth in our distribution revenue from new programmes 
including our US scripted dramas and Thunderbirds Are Go, 
which has already pre-sold to countries including Australia, 
New Zealand and Israel.

Overall ITV Studios’ EBITA before exceptional items increased 
22% to £162 million (2013: £133 million) and the EBITA margin 
increased by 1% to 17% as we benefitted from a higher margin 
revenue mix as a result of our acquisitions as well as production 
efficiencies in the year. 

Overall, ITV Studios’ revenue is again expected to be up around 
£100 million in 2015 on a constant currency basis. We are 
increasing our investment in programming, and have produced 
three high profile US dramas straight to series. Aquarius, Texas 
Rising and The Good Witch have been pre-sold to US networks, 
recovering part of our production investment, while the 
remainder, the ‘deficit’, will be recovered as we earn revenue 
from distributing the finished series globally. This increase 
in drama deliveries, which are lower margin, may impact the 
EBITA margin in 2015. Longer term, our strategy is to have an 
ongoing portfolio with six to ten international scripted series in 
production per annum.

43

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial and Performance Review continued

Acquisitions
In 2012, 2013 and 2014 we acquired a number of content 
businesses with a focus on factual and scripted reality 
producers in the US and UK, the two key markets with a track 
record for creating and owning IP. These have been made 
against strict strategic and financial criteria. Financially, 
we look at ownership of IP, return on capital employed and 
discounted cash flow. Strategically, we look at the talent, 
creative pipeline and type of content to ensure it has the 
potential to return and travel. 

In 2012 we acquired Gurney Productions in the US, So TV in 
the UK, Mediacircus in Norway and Tarinatalo in Finland. In 
2013 we acquired The Garden and Big Talk Productions in 
the UK along with 60% of High Noon Entertainment and 
65% of Thinkfactory Media in the US. There are put and call 
arrangements in place to buy the remaining minority stakes.

In February 2014 we acquired 100% of United, a Danish 
producer of entertainment and reality programmes, and a 
51% controlling interest in DiGa, a US independent producer 
of reality and scripted programming. There is a put and call 
option to buy the remainder of DiGa over three to six years, 
with the total amount payable linked to the performance of 
the company over that period. 

In May 2014 we made the acquisition of Leftfield, a high 
margin US production company. We made an initial cash 
payment of $360 million for 80% and have put and call 
options in place to buy the remaining 20% over three to five 
years. 

The total cash consideration for all acquisitions since 2012 
was £328 million. We structure our deals with earnouts or 
put and call options in place for the remainder of the equity, 
capping the maximum consideration payable. By basing a 
significant part of the consideration on future performance 
in this way, not only can we lock in creative talent and ensure 
our incentives are aligned, but we also reduce our risk by only 
paying for the actual, not expected, performance delivered 
over time.

At 31 December 2014, based on our current view of 
performance, we expect to pay a further £79 million, giving 
a total expected amount payable across the portfolio of 
£407 million. The total maximum consideration for our 
portfolio of acquisitions is £847 million, reflecting the 
initial consideration of £328 million and an undiscounted 
contingent consideration of £519 million, payable only if 
exceptional compound earnings growth is delivered over the 
payment period. 

Geography Genre

Denmark Factual & entertainment
US Reality & scripted
US Reality

Company

2014
United
DiGa 
Leftfield
Total for 2014
Total for 2013
Total for 2012
Total

Initial
consideration
(£m)

1
5
214
220
66
42
328

Total expected 
consideration* 

(£m)

4
10
233
247
93
67
407

Total maximum 
consideration*
(£m)

Expected 
payment 
period

2018
2020
2019

2017–2021
2016–2018

5
33
504
542
204
101
847

* Undiscounted and including the initial cash consideration. All payments are performance related.

44

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and FinancialsPerformance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Net financing costs

Twelve months to 31 December
Financing costs directly attributable to 
loans and bonds
Cash-related net financing income/ (costs)
Cash-related financing costs
Amortisation of bonds
Adjusted financing costs
Mark-to-market on swaps and foreign 
exchange
Imputed pension interest
Losses on buybacks
Other net financial income 
Net financing costs

2014
£m

2013
£m

(8)
2
(6)
(1)
(7)

(9)
(17)
(30)
12
(51)

(18)
(2)
(20)
(5)
(25)

(9)
(20)
(61)
–
(115)

Adjusted financing costs reduced by £18 million in the 
year to £7 million (2013: £25 million), benefitting from the 
redemption of the 2016 convertible bond outstanding in 
2013 and the repurchase of the remaining tranche of the 
2019 bilateral loan in January 2014.

Net financing costs were £64 million lower at £51 million 
(2013: £115 million) in 2014. The £30 million of losses on 
buybacks relate to the exceptional loss on the 2019 debt we 
repurchased in January 2014, saving £44 million of future 
adjusted financing costs. We also recorded net financial 
income of £12 million (2013: £nil) in the year, principally 
reflecting a reduction in the expected amount payable on 
our acquisition portfolio.

Profit before tax

Twelve months to 31 December
Profit before tax 
Exceptional items (net)
Amortisation and impairment of intangible 
assets*
Adjustments to net financing costs
Adjusted profit before tax

2014
£m
605
7

56
44
712

2013
£m
435
2

54
90
581

* In respect of intangible assets arising from business combinations.

Adjusted profit before tax, after financing costs, was up 23% 
at £712 million (2013: £581 million). The total tax charge for 
2014 was £132 million (2013: £105 million), corresponding to 
an effective tax rate on adjusted profit before tax of 21.2% 
(2013: 23.4%), which is broadly in line with the standard 
corporation tax rate of 21.5% (2013: 23.3%). 

Tax

Twelve months to 31 December
Tax charge 
Charge for exceptional items
Charge in respect of amortisation of 
intangible assets*
Charge in respect of adjustments to net 
financing costs
Other tax adjustments
Adjusted tax charge
Effective tax rate on adjusted profits

2014
£m
(132)
(2)

2013
£m
(105)
(1)

(12)

(12)

(10)
5
(151)
21%

(21)
3
(136)
23%

* In respect of intangible assets arising from business combinations.

Cash tax paid in the year was £85 million (2013: £67 million). 
This is lower than the total tax charge for 2014 due to timing 
differences arising from quarterly tax payments, the use of 
losses offsetting profit and the tax treatment of allowable 
pension contributions. The majority of cash tax is paid in  
the UK. 

EPS
Overall, adjusted profit after tax was up 26% at £561 million 
(2013: £445 million). After non-controlling interests of £7 
million (2013: £4 million), adjusted earnings per share was 
13.8p (2013: 11.2p), up 23%. The weighted average number 
of shares increased 2% to 4,002 million (2013: 3,929 million) 
largely due to the issue of shares following the convertible 
bond redemption in 2013. Diluted adjusted EPS in 2014 was 
13.7p (2013: 10.8p) reflecting a weighted average diluted 
number of shares of 4,040 million (2013: 4,111 million). Basic 
EPS increased 40% to 11.6p (2013: 8.3p).

Adjusted EPS

23%
YoY

.

8
3
1

.
.

2
2
1
1
1
1

.

1
9

9
7

.

4
6

.

8
1

.

09

10

11

12

13

14

p
14

12

10

8

6

4

2

0

45

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial and Performance Review continued

Basic EPS is adjusted to reflect the underlying performance 
of the business providing a more meaningful comparison of 
how the business is managed and measured on a day-to-day 
basis. Adjustments include: acquisition-related costs such as 
professional fees, primarily due diligence, and performance-
based employment-linked contingent payments; impairment 
of intangible assets; amortisation of intangible assets 
acquired through business combinations including customer 
contracts and relationships; net financing cost adjustments; 
and other tax adjustments. Amortisation of intangible assets 
that are required to run our business, including software 
licences, is not adjusted for. The table below reconciles basic 
to adjusted EPS.

Twelve months to 
31 December 2014
EBITA before exceptional 
items
Exceptional items 
(operating)
Amortisation and 
impairment of intangible 
assets
Net financing costs
Gain on sale of non-current 
assets and subsidiaries 
(non-operating exceptional 
items)
Profit before tax
Tax
Profit after tax
Non-controlling interests
Earnings
Shares (million), weighted 
average
EPS

Reported
£m

Adjustments
£m

Adjusted
£m

730

(12)

12

(67)
(51)

56
44

(5)
107
(19)
88
–

5
605
(132)
473
(7)
466

4,002
11.6p

730

–

(11)
(7)

–
712
(151)
561
(7)
554

4,002
13.8p

Dividend per share
Reflecting our confidence in the ongoing growth and cash 
generation of the business, the Board has committed to 
growing the full year ordinary dividend by at least 20%  
per annum for three years to 2016, by when we will achieve 
a dividend cover of between 2.0 and 2.5 times adjusted 
earnings per share. In line with this policy, the Board is 
proposing a final dividend for 2014 of 3.3p, which equates to 
a full year dividend of 4.7p (2013: 3.5p), up 34%.

ITV is now a more balanced business with strong underlying 
cash flows. As we enter the next phase of our strategy 
we continue to see investment opportunities to grow the 
business and enhance shareholder value but at the same 
time the Board recognises the importance of maintaining 
capital discipline and balance sheet efficiency. Therefore it is 
appropriate over time to increase our balance sheet leverage 
gradually while retaining the flexibility to continue  
to invest. 

In line with this approach, the Board is proposing a £250 
million return to shareholders by way of a special dividend  
of 6.25p.

Ordinary dividend per share

p
5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

0

Interim
Final  

3
3

.

4
1

.

4
2

.

.

1
1

13

14

2
1

.

8
1

.

.

4
0

11

.

8
0

12

09

10

46

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and FinancialsPerformance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Our underlying cash generation after payments for interest 
paid, cash tax and pension funding, also remained strong in 
the year. Free cash flow was up 10% at £478 million (2013: 
£433 million).

Net cash tracker
£m
675

8
7
4

600

525

450

375

300

225

150

75

0

0
3
-

3
1
3
-

4
6
1

4
1
2
-

3
3
-

1
1
-

1
4

Dec 13

Free
cash
flow

Bond
buybacks

Dividends Acquisitions,
net of cash
acquired

Purchase
of shares
for EBT

Other

Dec 14

Overall, after dividends, acquisitions and debt repayments 
we ended the year with net cash of £41 million, compared to 
net debt of £201 million at 30 June 2014 and £164 million 
net cash at 31 December 2013. Our cash generation was 
weighted towards the second half of 2014 due to the timing 
of our pension funding contribution, debt buybacks and the 
significant acquisition of Leftfield, all of which took place in 
the first half.   

Cash generation
Profit to cash conversion

Twelve months to 31 December

EBITA before exceptional items 
(Increase) in programme rights and other 
inventory distribution rights
Decrease/(increase) in receivables
(Decrease)/increase in payables
Working capital movement
Depreciation
Share-based compensation and pension 
service costs
Cash flow generated from operations 
before exceptional items
Acquisition of property, plant and 
equipment and intangible assets
Adjusted cash flow
Profit to cash ratio 

2014
£m
730

(39)
18
(48)
(69)
27

2013
£m
620

(42)
(15)
42
(15)
24

14

20

702

649

(37)
665
91%

(45)
604
97%

ITV maintained its strong cash generation and tight 
management of working capital balances in the year, 
generating £665 million (2013: £604 million) of operational 
cash from £730 million (2013: £620 million) of EBITA before 
exceptional items. This equates to a strong profit to cash 
ratio of 91%. The ratio has declined from 97% in 2013 as a 
result of increased investment in scripted content. 

Free cash flow

Twelve months to 31 December
Adjusted cash flow
Net interest paid
Cash tax
Pension funding
Free cash flow

2014
£m
665
(11)
(85)
(91)
478

2013
£m
604
(24)
(67)
(80)
433

Note: Except where disclosed, management views the acquisition of operating 
property, plant and equipment and intangibles as necessary ongoing 
investment in the business.

47

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial and Performance Review continued

Funding and liquidity
Debt structure and liquidity
In 2014 we again bought back debt to improve our balance 
sheet efficiency further, repurchasing the remaining tranche 
of the 2019 bilateral loan. 

We also entered into a number of new financing facilities. 
We obtained a committed £525 million Revolving Credit 
Facility provided by a number of core relationship banks, 
and also entered into a new £175 million bilateral financing 
facility and agreed a new £75m invoice discounting facility, 
both of which are free of financial covenants. All three 
facilities were undrawn as at the year end. 

As we enter the next phase of our strategy this financial 
flexibility and our continued strong free cash flow will 
enable us to invest in opportunities to grow the business and 
enhance shareholder value.

Leverage 

Twelve months to 31 December
Net cash
Expected contingent payments on 
acquisitions
Pension deficit (IAS 19R)
Operating leases
Adjusted net debt
Adjusted net debt to EBITDA

2014
£m
41

(79)
(346)
(381)
(765)
1.05

2013
£m
164

(97)
(445)
(414)
(792)
1.25

Going forward our objective is to run an efficient balance 
sheet, and to balance investment for further growth with 
attractive returns to shareholders. Therefore we will, over 
time, look to increase our balance sheet leverage. We believe 
that maintaining leverage below 1.55 net debt to EBITDA 
(before exceptionals) will optimise our cost of capital, allow 
us to sustain our progressive dividend policy and enable us to 
retain flexibility to continue to invest for further growth.

We also look at an adjusted measure of net debt, taking 
into consideration all of our financial commitments. At 
31 December 2014, adjusted net debt was broadly in line 
with the prior year at £765 million (31 December 2013: 
£792 million) reflecting a reduction in the pension deficit 
under IAS 19 and lower undiscounted operating lease 
commitments which mainly relate to broadcast transmission 
contracts and property. 

This adjusted measure, by taking into consideration all of our 
financial commitments, reflects how credit rating agencies 
could look at our balance sheet.

Financing
We are financed using debt instruments with a range of 
maturities. Following the buyback of the 2019 loan in 
January 2014, the remaining debt, other than the finance 
leases, is publicly traded Eurobond debt. Borrowings at  
31 December 2014 were repayable as follows:

Amount repayable
£78 million Eurobond
£161 million Eurobond
Finance leases
Total debt repayable on maturity

Maturity
Oct 2015
Jan 2017
Various

£m
78
161
17
256

Ratings
We are rated investment grade by two ratings agencies: 
BBB- by Standard and Poor’s and Baa3 by Moody’s Investor 
Services. The factors that are taken into account in assessing 
our credit rating include our degree of operational gearing, 
exposure to the economic cycle, as well as business and 
geographical diversity. Continuing to execute our strategy 
will strengthen our position against all these metrics.

48

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and FinancialsPerformance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Pensions 
IAS 19 
The aggregate IAS 19 deficit of the defined benefit schemes 
at 31 December 2014 was £346 million (31 December 2013: 
£445 million) reflecting pension funding contributions in 
March and April of £91 million. An increase in the pension 
liabilities, as a result of a fall in the discount rate used to 
measure liabilities, was offset by asset outperformance, 
primarily gilts and swaps.

Pensions continue to be paid from the Scheme based on 
actual requirements. 

IAS 19 Pension deficit tracker

Actuarial valuation
The last actuarial valuation was undertaken in 2011. On the 
bases adopted by the Trustee, the combined deficits as at  
1 January 2011 amounted to £587 million.

The Trustee is in the process of undertaking full actuarial 
valuations of all three sections of the Scheme as at 1 January 
2014. The Group’s deficit funding contributions will be 
reviewed following the result of the valuation, expected in 
Q2 2015.

Deficit funding contributions
In 2014 the group made deficit funding contributions of £91 
million (2013: £80 million). We do not expect our 2015 deficit 
funding contributions to exceed those made in 2014. 

£m
800

600

400

200

2
7
4
-

Ian Griffiths  
Group Finance Director

5
4
4
-

1
9
+

0
7
+

0
9
3
+

0
2
+

6
4
3
-

Dec 13

Deficit
funding

Change in 
liabilities: 
decrease in 
inflation

Change in 
liabilities: 
decrease 
in bond 
yields

Change in
assets:
investment
returns

Other

Dec 14

Pictured: 
Left: The Chase averaged over 3 million viewers in 2014. 
Its most watched episode attracted 4.4 million viewers 
and a 23% share.

Right: The Only Way Is Essex moved to its new home in 
2014 on new free-to-air channel ITVBe.

49

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVRisks and Uncertainties

ITV has a formal risk management process which 
is embedded within the business to support the 
identification and effective management of risks across 
the business. It is regularly reviewed and adapted as the 
Company, industry and macro environment evolves.

Our approach, which is consistent with previous years, covers 
risks at all levels of the organisation and considers risks in 
three core groups:
•	 High Impact, Low Likelihood (HILL) risks – of low 
inherent likelihood but where there would be major 
consequences were the risk to materialise;

•	 Strategic risks – would impact the successful execution 

of the strategy; and

•	 Process level risks – embedded into everyday activity 

within the organisation.

Risk management framework  
and risk appetite
The Board is responsible for establishing a robust and 
appropriate risk management framework and risk 
management process for ITV. The Board, supported by the 
Audit Committee, regularly reviews the risk management 
framework, its content and its operations. This includes 
reviewing the risks themselves and the mitigating actions. 

The Board also reviews risk appetite to ensure ITV is carrying 
an acceptable level of risk. During the year it conducted an 
exercise to assess the current risk appetite of the business 
and the actual risk the business takes with respect to 
the following categories: financial, market, operational, 
compliance and regulation, creative investment and 
organisational. This is considered to be the first step towards 
using risk appetite as a decision making tool and further 
work will be undertaken in 2015 to enhance this process.  
The Board also continues to monitor closely ITV’s specific 
financial risks, including foreign exchange, borrowing levels, 
interest rates and pension risks. 

The Audit Committee keeps the overall effectiveness of 
the risk management framework and the risk management 
process under review.

Risk management process
The Management Board has responsibility for the content 
and operation of the risk management framework and 
performs regular reviews of all risks. In 2014 all the HILL 
and Strategic risks were reassessed and further refined to 
improve our risk management. As well as management 
review, Process level risks are also subject to an ongoing 
review by internal audit.

Risk Management Framework

HILL 
risks

Strategic risks

Process level risks

50

High Impact, Low Likelihood (HILL) 
Of low inherent likelihood but where 
there would be major consequences 
were they to materialise

Strategic risks 
Would impact the successful 
execution of the strategy 

Process level risks 
Embedded into everyday activity 
within the organisation

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and FinancialsPerformance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Mitigating actions have been identified for all the HILL and 
Strategic risks. Each Strategic risk has been mapped to at 
least one of the three key strategic priorities and, where 
possible, assigned key risk indicators. Where appropriate, 
the key risk indicators are aligned to our key performance 
indicators (KPIs) on page 34 or a subset of these KPIs. All HILL 
and Strategic risks are owned by at least one member of the 
Management Board.

Risk monitoring process
ITV’s risk monitoring process is embedded in the running 
and review of the business. Risks are primarily controlled 
through the risk management process. In addition to the risk 
specific mitigating actions outlined below, risks are regularly 
discussed and considered through day-to-day operations 
and through a number of divisional Board and review 
processes. 

Internal audit plan
The internal audit plan is driven from ITV’s risk management 
framework. As outlined above, management has completed 
a number of activities with respect to HILL risks, Strategic 
risks and Process level risks. Internal audit reviews the 
auditable elements of these risks and this informs the areas 
and topics that internal audit focuses on. 

Pictured: 
ITV2 comedy Plebs returned for a second 
series in the autumn. It averaged 0.9 million 
viewers, up on the previous year’s series.

51

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVRisks and Uncertainties continued

High Impact, Low Likelihood Risks (HILL)

Potential Risk

Mitigating Factors

Financial
ITV loses its credit status or lines 
of funding with existing lenders or 
there is a collapse of a major bank 
impacting financial arrangements/
availability of credit.

There is a major collapse in 
investment values leading to a 
material impact on the pension 
scheme deficit.

Operational
A significant event removes a 
number of the key management 
team from the business on a long-
term or permanent basis.

Reputation
An event with public interest that 
causes significant reputational and 
brand damage.

•	 The business is cash generative and working capital management remains a key 

focus.

•	 ITV has £250 million of undrawn, financial covenant free facilities in addition to 
a £525 million Revolving Credit Facility with a number of core relationship banks.

•	 The low gross debt levels that ITV now has should enable the Company to 

obtain debt from the marketplace if needed.

•	 We are rated investment grade by two ratings agencies.
•	 There is regular communication between ITV and the pension trustees.
•	 The pension scheme’s assets are invested in a diversified portfolio, with a 

significant amount of the fund held in bonds.

•	 ITV has worked with the pension trustees to limit the potential deficit by a 

series of asset backed arrangements and taken risk out of the scheme with a 
longevity swap. 

•	 There is a business resilience plan in place which includes succession plans or 

nominated replacements for all key positions within the Company.

•	 ITV has a crisis management policy in place and is increasing emphasis on its 

development and application.

There is a major health and safety 
incident that results in a significant 
loss of human life.

•	 ITV has a central Health & Safety team and Health & Safety policies and 

procedures are in place, with appropriate training for employees where required. 
As we expand internationally these will be continually reviewed.

A major incident results in ITV being 
unable to continue with scheduled 
broadcasting for a sustained period.

There is a significant or unexpected 
change in regulation or legislation.

•	 Regular inspections are undertaken at all sites, which are run alongside a 
programme of Health & Safety audits. This is subject to ongoing review.

•	 A risk register of broadcast operations, including key outsourced functions, is in 

place and reviewed on a regular basis.

•	 Major incident scenario testing performed in 2014.
•	 An incident management process has been agreed and disaster recovery plans 

are in place.

•	 ITV regularly communicates with legislative groups, legal panels and Ofcom to 

monitor potential policy and regulatory developments.

52

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and FinancialsPerformance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Strategic Risks

Strategic Risk

Mitigating Factors

The Market
There is a major decline in 
advertising revenues and ITV 
does not build sufficient non-NAR 
revenue streams to offset the 
financial impact of this decline.

The television market moves 
significantly towards pay television 
as a preferred model, negatively 
impacting ITV’s free-to-air revenue.

A faster than expected shift 
to Video on Demand (VOD) or 
other new technologies causes 
a sustained loss of advertising 
revenue.

People
ITV fails to evolve its organisational 
structure and culture to ensure that 
it is capable of delivering continued 
growth from the new businesses or 
revenue streams and fails to attract, 
develop and retain key creative, 
commercial and management talent 
with the skills required for the 
ongoing business.

Strategic 
Priorities

1

2 3

•	 Growing non-advertising revenue in areas such as ITV Studios 
and Online, Pay & Interactive, remains a key part of the strategy.
•	 ITV continues to focus on cash and costs, ensuring the Company 
has an adequate financial liquidity and balance sheet flexibility.

•	 ITV continues to support free platforms, including YouView, to 

keep free-to-air strong.

1

3

•	 ITV looks at and evaluates the opportunities for expanding its 

existing pay services and other pay offerings.

•	 ITV explores other platforms to understand viewing habits and 

what people are prepared to pay for.

•	 The business continues to develop ITV Player VOD services, 
maximise the distribution of ITV Player and grow its VOD 
advertising business.

•	 ITV monitors the market for new technology and where 

appropriate explores how ITV can participate.

1

2 3

•	 ITV constantly reassesses the business to create a fit-for-

purpose organisation.

1

2 3

•	 Strategic focus on working across the business to embed and 

strengthen the culture of ‘One ITV’ way of working.

•	 ITV invests in training and development for all key colleagues in 

the business.

•	 Succession plans are in place for all key positions within the 

Company.

53

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVRisks and Uncertainties continued

Strategic Risks

Strategic Risk

Mitigating Factors

Organisation, Structure and Processes
There is significant loss of 
programme rights or ITV fails to 
identify and obtain the optimal 
rights packages.

•	 ITV is focused on both protecting and exploiting existing rights 

and ensuring that future rights generated accrue to ITV.
•	 ITV has a detailed model to evaluate the value of third party 
rights to ensure it only buys rights that make economic sense.

ITV fails to create and own 
a sufficient number of hit 
programmes/formats.

•	 ITV maximises opportunities for ITV Studios to create 

successful shows by investing in the creative pipeline and 
focusing on programmes and genres that can return and 
travel internationally, i.e. drama, entertainment and factual 
entertainment, as evidenced by our increased investment in 
scripted content.

•	 ITV is focused on hiring and retaining the right key creative 

talent.

Strategic 
Priorities

1

2 3

1

2 3

ITV fails to properly resource, 
financially, creatively and 
operationally, the new growth 
businesses, in particular online and 
international content.

ITV loses a significant volume of 
personal or sensitive data.

ITV remains heavily reliant on 
legacy systems, which could 
potentially restrict the ability 
to grow the business. These 
systems and processes may not be 
appropriate for non-advertising 
revenue or international growth.

•	 Talent management plans have been developed and reviewed 

to ensure adequate succession planning across ITV. 

1

2 3

•	 ITV continues to embed and strengthen the culture of ‘One ITV’ 

way of working.

•	 Lessons from recent investments are captured through post 

acquisition reviews.

•	 A Management Board sponsored Operational Risk Steering 
Group is in place to ensure the appropriate management of 
information security.

•	 Mandatory online training modules, awareness campaigns and 

simplified information security policies for employees. 

•	 Monitoring of information sharing outside of ITV.
•	 System requirements are kept under review with business 

growth and system modernisation projects implemented as 
appropriate.

•	 A modernisation plan is in place for the legacy systems which 
remains under constant review and development to ensure 
technology systems meet the needs of the business.

1

2 3

2 3

54

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Performance and FinancialsPerformance and Financials
Key Performance Indicators
Financial and Performance Review
Risks and Uncertainties

Strategic Risks

Strategic Risk

Mitigating Factors

Strategic 
Priorities

Technology
A significant high profile incident 
or series of events such as 
transmission incidents or a major 
regulatory breach causes significant 
reputational damage.

ITV fails to ensure appropriate 
business continuity planning 
and resilience within its core 
systems, processes, platforms and 
technology infrastructure.

There is a sustained cyber/viral 
attack causing prolonged system 
denial or major reputational 
damage, for example the ability 
to broadcast our channels or the 
availability of ITV Player.

•	 ITV has ongoing modernisation projects to ensure transmission 

and distribution technologies are fit-for-purpose.

1

2 3

•	 There are disaster recovery and incident management plans 

in place in high risk areas of the business to help deliver a rapid 
and flexible response.

•	 ITV proactively manages its broadcast chain partners and 

suppliers to ensure the risk of incidents and regulatory breach is 
minimised.

•	 Disaster recovery plans are in place with tests conducted 

annually on business critical systems. 

1

2 3

1

2 3

•	 We continue to improve our ability to monitor, detect and 

respond to cyber threats internally and through partnerships 
with specialist security organisations.

•	 Mandatory online training modules, awareness campaigns and 
simplified information security policies have been implemented 
for employees.

•	 There are disaster recovery and incident management plans in 
place for high risk areas of the business to help deliver a rapid 
and flexible response.

•	 A Management Board sponsored Operational Risk Steering 
Group is in place to ensure the appropriate management of 
information security.

The Strategic Report was approved by the Board and signed on its behalf by: 

Adam Crozier 
Chief Executive 

55

sluglineStrategic Reportar2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVPictured: 
Grantchester, a six part drama, launched 
with 7.7 million viewers and went on to 
average 6.6 million and 24%.

56

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Board of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Governance

Board of Directors

Management Board

Directors’ Report and Responsibilities

Chairman’s Governance Statement

Corporate Governance

Audit Committee Report

Annual Remuneration Report

Remuneration Policy

58

60

62

67

68

75

82

96

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6

8

Board of Directors

1

3

5

7

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sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Governance1

Archie Norman
Chairman

2

Adam Crozier
Chief Executive

3

Ian Griffiths
Group Finance Director

Appointed: January 2010

Appointed: April 2010

Appointed: September 2008

Committees: Nomination 
(Chairman), Remuneration

Key areas of prior experience:
Business turnaround, consumer 
marketing, international business 
corporate finance and regulatory 
affairs.

Current external appointments:
Chairman – Lazard, London and 
Hobbycraft PLC; Director – Coles 
Group and Target Limited; Adviser 
– Wesfarmers Limited; Governor – 
National Institute of Economic and 
Social Research.

Previous experience: Founder 
– Aurigo Management Partners 
LLP; Chairman – HSS Hire Services 
Group and Energis PLC; Chief 
Executive and Chairman – ASDA 
Group plc; Finance Director 
– Kingfisher plc; Member of 
Parliament. Partner - McKinsey  
& Co.; Deputy Chairman and 
Chief Executive - Conservative 
Party; Shadow Secretary of State 
- Department of Environment, 
Transport and the Regions; Non-
executive Director - British Rail, 
Railtrack plc and Geest plc.

5

Roger Faxon
Non-executive Director

Appointed: October 2012

Committees: Nomination

Key areas of prior experience:
Broad commercial, digital 
and media rights experience, 
development of business strategy 
and finance.

Current external appointments:
Director - The John Hopkins 
University, The Songwriters Hall of 
Fame and Mirriad Limited.

Previous experience: Director 
– EMI Group Global Limited and 
EMI Group plc; Chief Executive 
Officer – EMI Group Limited; 
Chairman and CEO – EMI Music 
Publishing,  Music Choice (Digital 
Cable Radio), the American Society 
of Composers and Authors and 
Lancit Media Entertainment Ltd in 
the US; Chairman – VIVA Television 
in Germany; Director – Channel V 
Networks in Asia. 

Committees: General Purpose

Committees: General Purpose

Key areas of prior experience:
Business turnaround and change 
management.

Key areas of prior experience:
Corporate finance and financial 
restructuring.

Current external appointments:

Non-executive Director – G4S plc.

Previous experience:  
Non-executive Director – 
Debenhams plc and Camelot 
Group plc; Group Chief Executive 
– Royal Mail Group; Chief Executive 
– Football Association; Joint Chief 
Executive – Saatchi & Saatchi.

Current external appointments:
Non-executive Director –  
DS Smith Plc.

Previous experience:  Group 
Finance Director – Emap plc. 
Senior finance roles held within 
Emap plc including Director 
of financial control and head 
of finance at Emap Business 
Communications; Manager - Audit 
and corporate finance, Ernst & 
Young. 

6

Andy Haste
Senior Independent Director

7

Mary Harris 
Non-executive Director

Appointed: August 2008

Committees: Audit, Remuneration 
(Chairman), Nomination

Key areas of prior experience:
International and emerging 
markets, change management, 
restructuring and business 
turnaround.

Current external appointments:
Chairman – Wonga Group Limited; 
Senior Independent Deputy 
Chairman – Council of Lloyds.

Previous experience: Group 
Chief Executive - RSA Insurance 
Group plc; Chief Executive - AXA 
Sun plc; Director – AXA UK plc 
(life and pensions); President 
and Chief Executive Officer – 
GE Capital Global Consumer 
Finance UK, Western Europe 
and Eastern Europe; President – 
National Westminster Bank US 
Consumer Credit Business; Senior 
Vice President and Head – US 
Consumer Loan Products Division 
at National Westminster Bank.

Appointed: July 2014

Committees: Nomination

Key areas of prior experience:
Business management consulting, 
sales and marketing, mergers and 
acquisitions, media, television and 
interactive media investments and 
digital rights management.

Current external appointments:
Non-executive Director – Reckitt 
Benckiser Group plc and J.Sainsbury 
plc; Member of supervisory 
board – Scotch and Soda NV, TNT 
Express NV and Unibail Rodamco 
SE; Member of Remuneration 
Committee – St.Hilda’s College, 
Oxford University.

Previous experience: Member 
of supervisory board – TNT NV; 
Member of advisory board – 
Irdeto BV. Partner of McKinsey & 
Company, Amsterdam; Various 
positions worldwide - McKinsey & 
Company, Maxwell Entertainment 
Group, Pepsi Cola Beverages and 
Goldman Sachs & Co. 

Full biographies can be found on our website:  
www.itvplc.com/about/management/board-of-directors

Board of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

4

Sir Peter Bazalgette
Non-executive Director

Appointed: June 2013

Committees: Nomination, 
Remuneration

Key areas of prior experience:
Media consultant, digital media 
investor and former television 
producer.

Current external appointments:
Chairman – Arts Council of 
England; Non-executive Director – 
Nutopia and Mirriad Ltd; President 
– Royal Television Society; 
Senior Non-executive Director 
and Chairman – Remuneration 
Committee of YouGov plc; 
Member – Audit Committee, 
YouGov plc.

Previous experience:  Non-
executive Director – DCMS, Base 
79 Ltd, Critical Information Group 
plc and Channel Four Television 
Corp; Trustee – DebateMate; 
Chairman – ENO and Endemol UK; 
Deputy Chairman and Director 
– National Film and Television 
School; Adviser – Sony Music’s 
television division; Chairman – 
UK production business at Sony 
Pictures Television Inc. 

8

John Ormerod
Non-executive Director

Appointed: January 2008

Committees: Audit (Chairman), 
Nomination, Remuneration

Key areas of prior experience:
Financial experience, developing 
strategy and growth.

Current external appointments:
Non-executive Director – First 
Names Group Limited and 
Constellium NV; Chairman – Tribal 
Group plc; Non-executive Director 
and Chairman – Audit Committee, 
Gemalto NV and Computacenter plc.

Previous experience: Senior 
Independent Director and 
Chairman – Audit Committee, 
Misys plc; Trustee – Design 
Museum and The Roundhouse 
Trust; Non-executive Director and 
Chairman – Merlin Claims Services 
Holdings Limited; Non-executive 
Director – Negative Equity 
Protection Holdings Limited, Millen 
Group Limited and BMS Associated 
Limited; Member of Audit and 
Retail Risk Control Committees, 
HBOS plc; Chairman – Audit 
Committee, Transport for London.  
Practice Senior Partner - Deloitte; 
Regional Managing Partner - 
Arthur Andersen.

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sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernance2

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Management Board

1

3

5

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sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Governance1

Mary Fagan
Group Communications and 
Corporate Affairs Director

Appointment to the Board: 
January 2011

2

Peter Fincham
Director of Television, 
Channels and Online

Appointment to the Board: 
May 2008

Previous experience:
Mary joined ITV from the Royal Mail Group, 
where she was Corporate and Government 
Affairs Director from December 2003. A senior 
City and Business journalist with more than 
20 years’ experience, Mary’s previous roles 
included Deputy City Editor of the Sunday 
Telegraph, Industrial Correspondent for the 
Independent and City Reporter at the Evening 
Standard. 

Previous experience:
Peter joined ITV in 2008 having previously 
been the controller of BBC One. He began 
his career in broadcasting at independent 
production company Talkback Productions, 
where he became Managing Director in 1986. 
In 2000 Talkback Productions was sold to 
Fremantle Media and in 2003 Peter became 
Chief Executive of the newly merged company 
TalkbackThames.

4

Kevin Lygo
Managing Director, ITV Studios

Appointment to the Board: 
August 2010

Previous experience:
Before joining ITV Kevin spent much of his 
career at Channel 4, most recently as Director 
of Television and Content which included 
responsibility for Channel 4 Group’s portfolio 
of channels. Kevin’s previous roles include 
Director of Programmes at Channel 5 as well 
as a number of positions at the BBC, including 
Head of Independent Commissioning for 
Entertainment. 

5

David Osborn 
Group Human Resources Director

Appointment to the Board: 
October 2014

Previous experience:

David joined ITV as the Human Resources 
Director for ITV Studios in May 2011, and 
was appointed to the Management Board 
in October 2014 as Group Human Resources 
Director, responsible for delivering the Group’s 
People Strategy. David has gained previous 
experience in both the UK and internationally 
whilst working in a variety of businesses 
including EMI Music, Vodafone, Visa Europe and 
Marks & Spencer.

7

Kelly Williams
Managing Director, Commercial

Appointment to the Board: 
December 2014

Previous experience:

Kelly joined ITV in August 2011 as Group 
Commercial Director and was promoted to 
the Management Board as Managing Director 
of Commercial in December 2014. He is also 
Chairman of the Thinkbox Board, sits on the 
BARB Strategy Board and is Vice Chairman of 
the Advertising Association. Before joining ITV, 
Kelly was the Sales Director at Channel 5 and 
prior to that held various positions at UKTV, Sky 
and Thames Television.

Board of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

3

Andrew Garard
Group Legal Director and 
Company Secretary

Appointment to the Board: 
November 2007

Previous experience:
Andrew joined ITV as Group Legal Director 
in 2007 and took on the additional role 
of Company Secretary in 2009. He is also 
Chairman of ITN, and responsible for rights 
management, the ITV archive and Corporate 
Responsibility.  Previously Andrew was a 
Partner in the corporate department of 
LeBoeuf Lamb’s London office. Prior to this, 
Andrew was Group General Counsel and 
Company Secretary at Cable & Wireless 
plc where he was a member of the Group 
Executive responsible for Global Legal. Prior to 
that he was Global Head of Legal and Deputy 
General Counsel of Reuters Group plc in the UK, 
and before that, General Counsel Asia. 

6

Simon Pitts
Managing Director, Online, Pay TV, 
Interactive & Technology

Appointment to the Board: 
January 2011

Previous experience:
Simon joined ITV in 2000 and has held a 
range of roles across corporate strategy, 
general management, digital media, policy 
and regulation, and public affairs. He took 
on his most recent role in December 2014 
with a remit to grow ITV’s Online, Pay TV and 
Interactive businesses alongside continued 
leadership of the Technology Group. He also 
has responsibility for SDN, sits on the boards of 
ITN and YouView and is a Trustee of the Royal 
Television Society. Before ITV Simon worked in 
the European Parliament in Brussels where he 
specialised in media issues.

61

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceDirectors’ Report and Responsibilities

The Directors present their report together with the audited 
consolidated and parent company financial statements for 
the year ended 31 December 2014. The comparative period 
is for the year ended 31 December 2013.

Directors
A table showing Directors who served in the year can be 
found on page 70. Biographies for Directors currently in 
office can be found on page 59. Further information on 
the appointment process can be found in the Governance 
section on page 69.

In accordance with the UK Corporate Governance Code (the 
Code), each Director will retire and submit himself or herself 
for election or re-election at the AGM on 14 May 2015.

On 28 July 2014 Mary Harris was appointed as a Non-
executive Director, and will seek election as a Director of 
the Company at the AGM. Peter Bazalgette joined the 
Remuneration Committee on 1 June 2014.

On 17 July 2014 Lucy Neville-Rolfe stepped down from the 
Board. 

Detail on compensation for loss of office can be found in our 
Annual Remuneration Report on page 94.

No Director had any interest in any contract with the 
Company or its subsidiary undertakings.

Post balance sheet events
There are no post balance sheet events to report. 

Dividends
The Board has proposed a final dividend for the year ended 
31 December 2014. Details of this and other dividends paid 
for the year are as follows: 

Interim dividend
Final dividend
Total Ordinary

Special dividend
Total Payments

2014
1.4p
3.3p
4.7p

6.25p
10.95p

2013
1.0p
2.4p
3.5p

4.0p
7.5p

The final dividend and special dividend for 2014 will be paid 
on 29 May 2015 to shareholders on the register on 1 May 
2015. The ex dividend date is 30 April 2015.

Share capital
Issued: At the date of this report there were 4,025,409,194 
ordinary shares of 10 pence each in issue, all of which are 
fully paid up and quoted on the London Stock Exchange. 

Rights: The rights attaching to the Company’s ordinary 
shares, as well as the powers of the Company’s Directors, 

are set out in the Company’s Articles of Association. Unless 
expressly specified to the contrary, the Articles may only be 
amended by special resolution of the shareholders. A copy of 
the Articles can be obtained from the Company’s website or 
by writing to the Company Secretary.

www.itvplc.com/about/governance

Restrictions: There are no restrictions on the transfer of 
ordinary shares in the capital of the Company other than 
those which may be imposed by law from time to time. In 
accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules 
(DTRs), certain employees are required to seek approval 
to deal in ITV shares. The Company is not aware of any 
agreements between shareholders that may result in 
restrictions on the transfers of securities and/or voting 
rights.

Purchase of own shares: The Directors have the authority 
to purchase up to 402.5 million of the Company’s ordinary 
shares. The authority remains valid until the AGM in 2015 or 
15 August 2015, if earlier.

Trusts: The Company has a discretionary employees’ 
benefit trust (EBT) funded by loans to acquire shares for the 
potential benefit of employees. Details of shares held by the 
EBT at 31 December 2014 are set out on page 158. During 
the year shares have been released from the EBT in respect 
of share schemes for employees. 

The trustee of the EBT has the power to exercise all voting 
rights in relation to any investment (including ordinary 
shares) held within the EBT. 

Listing Rule 9.8.4 disclosures
There are no disclosures to be made other than that the 
trustee of the EBT waived their rights to receive dividends on 
shares held by them which do not relate to restricted shares 
held under the ITV Deferred Share Award Plan. 

Substantial shareholdings
Information regarding interests in voting rights provided 
to the Company pursuant to the DTRs is published on a 
Regulatory Information Service and on the Company’s 
website. 

www.itvplc.com/investors/announcements

As at 4 March 2015, the information in the table below 
had been received, in accordance with DTR5, from holders 
of notifiable interests in the Company’s issued share 
capital. It should be noted that these holdings are likely 
to have changed since notified to the Company. However, 
notification of any change is not required until the next 
applicable threshold is crossed.

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sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

At 31 December 2014

Shares

Nature of
holding

%

Liberty Global 
Incorporated Limited

Blackrock Inc.

259,820,065

195,504,921

6.46

5.00

Direct

Indirect

Notification from Blackrock Inc. was not made in the year. 

The number of shares is based on announcements made by 
each relevant shareholder using the Company’s issued share 
capital at that date.

Disclosures were also received from Brandes Investment 
Partners LP, Madjedie Asset Management Limited and Sky 
Holdings Limited during the year notifying the Company 
that they no longer held a notifiable interest.

Change of control
No person holds securities in the Company carrying special 
rights with regard to control of the Company.

All of the Company’s share schemes contain provisions 
relating to a change of control. Outstanding awards and 
options would normally vest and become exercisable on 
a change of control, subject to the satisfaction of any 
performance conditions and proration for time where 
appropriate.

Certain of the Group’s bonds/borrowing facilities have 
change of control clauses whereby the issuer can require 
ITV to repay/redeem bonds in the event of a change of 
control. The Company is not aware of any other significant 
agreements to which it is party that take effect, alter or 
terminate upon a change of control of the Company.

Financial instruments
Note 4.5 to the accounts gives details of the Group’s financial 
risk management policies and related exposures. 

Political donations
It is the Company’s policy not to make cash contributions 
to any political party. However, within the normal activities 
of the Company’s national and regional news-gathering 
operations there may be occasions when an activity might 
fall within the broader definition of ‘political expenditure’ 
contained within the Companies Act 2006. Shareholder 
authority for such expenditure was given at the 2014 AGM. 
However, during 2014 the Group made no payments falling 
within this definition (2013: nil).

Employees
Disability
The Company gives full and fair consideration to the 
employment of people with disabilities in accordance with 
the Equality Act 2010.

This is reflected in an award from the 
Department for Work and Pensions of a 
Two Ticks Disability Symbol.

In the event of an employee becoming 

disabled, it is the Company’s policy, wherever possible, to 
support the individual to continue their employment or be 
considered for other open positions within the business. 

The Company’s employment and recruitment policy is based 
on non-discrimination and equal opportunities. We are 
committed to ensuring that all training, career development 
and promotional opportunities are accessible and inclusive 
to all and individuals with a disability are afforded the same 
career opportunities for growth and progression.

A comprehensive Reasonable 
Adjustment policy, disability 
focused training and accessible 

resource material enable the Company to build confidence 
around the disability agenda to attract, develop and retain 
those with a disability.  We are able to draw on our own in-
house service ‘Signpost’, for additional support and guidance 
around access and inclusion for particular communities.

The Company’s commitment around the disability agenda 
extends beyond our legal obligations.  In addition to our 
corporate activities, diversity and inclusion is now factored 
into the procurement of programme suppliers. For a 
comprehensive outline of our activity visit our Corporate 
Responsibility website.

www.itvplc.com/responsibility

Engagement
Attracting and retaining talent is critical to our success. It 
is therefore in our interest to ensure that we provide the 
appropriate rewards and opportunities for development so 
that employees feel engaged with the Company.

In 2014 the Company carried out an engagement 
campaign consisting of a series of roadshows during which 
the Management Board visited ITV locations. This gave 
employees an opportunity to feed back their thoughts and 
concerns about the business. Engagement was reinforced 
through forums such as the intranet, regular hard copy 
newsletters and briefings between management and its 
teams. These channels enabled employees to understand 

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sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceDirectors’ Report and Responsibilities continued

the financial and economic factors affecting the Company’s 
performance, how their role contributed towards the 
execution of the strategy and how they could benefit from 
Company success through involvement in employee share 
schemes and information on their rights and benefits.  

We have continued to measure and listen to employees 
through employee surveys.

Employee engagement in 2014 was

90% (2013: 91%)

which is well ahead of the 
benchmark response of 83%

>92% of respondents
said they were proud 
to work for ITV

Remuneration
When the Company reviews pay it takes a number of factors 
into consideration, including the need to stay competitive. 
Our focus on cash and costs remains incredibly important 
for the future health of our business. We need to balance 
our business and financial commitments with our continuing 
investment in our programming and people. 

From 1 January 2014 employees received an average pay 
increase of 2.75%.

The Company continues to be committed to ensuring 
colleagues earn at least the Living Wage or greater. Where 
appropriate we have agreed additional increases. For all 
eligible colleagues on a full-time equivalent basic salary of 
£60,001 or above (unless covered by a collective agreement), 
pay increases are merit based, subject to performance and 
based on an overall pay pot (2.75% in 2014).

In addition a bonus arrangement extends to all our 
employees, providing a comprehensive and fully integrated 
incentive framework which rewards everybody when the 
Company is successful.  The all employee bonus award for 
2014 was £1,200. 

The Company also operates a successful and popular 
all-employee Save As You Earn scheme that encourages 
voluntary investment in Company shares and a package of 
voluntary benefits, which provides valuable cost savings for 
both employees and the Company.

Information about remuneration for the Directors is included 
in the Annual Remuneration Report on page 82 to 95.

Pensions
The Company operates a pension scheme which provides 
retirement and death benefits for employees. The ITV 
Pension Scheme (the “Scheme”) comprises three sections: 

A, B and C. Section A includes the defined contribution 
(DC) section of the Scheme. The DC section is open to new 
members. The defined benefit (DB) sections are closed to 
new members but are still open to future accrual.

ITV Pension Scheme Limited (a wholly owned subsidiary 
of ITV plc) is a corporate trustee and manages the DB and 
DC assets, which are held under trust separately from 
the Company. Members of the trustee board are formally 
appointed as directors of ITV Pension Scheme Limited. There 
are nine directors including the chairman — five appointed 
by the Company and four nominated by the members.

There is currently a vacancy for a Company appointed 
director.

The trustee has four committees: Investment, Audit and 
Operations, DC, and Corporate Affairs. The Corporate 
Affairs Committee is convened as and when appropriate for 
dealing with any corporate activities that may arise. It is the 
responsibility of the trustee to have in place appropriate 
training for its directors and effective committee structures. 
The trustee board and each committee have a business plan 
which is reviewed and updated on an annual basis, together 
with the associated budget. The trustee board also has a 
risk register, a conflicts of interest policy and a register of 
interests policy, all of which are reviewed at least annually.

The trustee directors receive regular training throughout the 
year and also have the support of various professional advisers. 
The chairman and the pensions executive identify training 
opportunities. Training is delivered both by attendance at 
external courses and with targeted training to support specific 
agenda items at the start of each trustee board meeting. 
Where appropriate, longer training sessions are organised. 
Comprehensive records are kept of all training completed by 
each trustee director and training is discussed as part of the  
trustee evaluations conducted on an annual basis. 

The trustee board completes regular assessments of its 
advisers and has prepared a Service Charter that outlines 
the terms of the appointment and clarity on the services 
provided.  

On 28 March 2014, the Company and the trustee established 
a Pension Funding Partnership backed by the London 
Television Centre resulting in the assets of Section A (as 
calculated on a funding basis) being increased by £50 million, 
met by annual dividend payments of around £2 million a year 
over a 24-year term and an initial payment of £2 million.

Full valuations are carried out every three years. The latest 
completed actuarial valuation of all three sections of the 
main DB scheme was carried out as at 1 January 2011. The 

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Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

trustee of the Scheme is undertaking actuarial valuations as 
at 1 January 2014 and the outcome is expected in Q2 2015.

To encourage greater pension savings, the Government has 
introduced auto-enrolment. This requires employers to enrol 
all eligible individuals into a pension scheme automatically. 
The requirement to comply with the auto-enrolment 
regulations is being phased in with larger employers 
required to comply first and medium and smaller employers 
following. The Company had to comply from 2013 and has 
to enrol all individuals who are contracted to work for us, 
regardless of their contract type or tax status (not just our 
employees). 

Eligible individuals are enrolled into the ITV Auto-enrolment 
Pension Plan. The plan is provided by a company called 
NOW:Pensions under a master trust which is run by an 
independent board of trustee directors.

that this increase could, in part, be due to a campaign 
undertaken to improve awareness of the need to report lost 
time incidents. 

Greenhouse Gas emissions
The Company is required to report annually on the quantity 
of carbon dioxide emissions in tonnes emitted as a result of 
activities for which it is responsible.

All new regulatory data for the financial year ended  
31 December 2014 is disclosed below for direct and indirect 
emissions. Data on other emissions where available and 
more information on our energy use, environmental impacts, 
and how we aim to make a positive difference can be found 
on our Corporate Responsibility website. 

www.itvplc.com/responsibility

Pension Scheme indemnities: Qualifying pension scheme 
indemnity provisions, as defined in Section 235 of the 
Companies Act 2006, were in force for the financial year 
ended 31 December 2014 and remain in force for the benefit 
of each of the directors of ITV Pension Scheme Limited. 
These indemnity provisions cover, to the extent permitted 
by law, certain losses or liabilities incurred as a director or 
officer of ITV Pension Scheme Limited.

Indicator
Total gross CO2e emissions
Scope 1: Direct emissions
Scope 2: Indirect emissions
Total Revenue
Emissions per unit/£m turnover

Source: Utilyx analysis of ITV data.

2014

2013 (reported 
data)
40,200 (t CO2e) 43,485 (t CO2e)
17,117 (t CO2e)
11,180 (t CO2e)
29,021 (t CO2e) 26,368 (t CO2e)
£2,753m
 15.8 (t CO2e)

£2,956m
13.6 (t CO2e)

For further information about pensions please see page 49 
and note 3.7 on page 140.

Health and safety
The health and safety of our employees, contractors and 
visitors is always a high priority. The significant loss of human 
life as the result of a major incident has been identified as 
a specific risk to the organisation. The Company’s Health 
and Safety team continue to use a management system 
that meets the specific risk profile of the business which 
is communicated across the business and supported by 
a comprehensive training programme.  Performance 
indicators for the UK are shown below.

2014

2013

Non
Staff Total Staff

Non
Staff Total

Staff

Lost time accidents 
reported under RIDDOR
Specified injuries reported 
under RIDDOR

8

4

3

2

11

6

2

1

5

6

7

7

In 2014 there was an increase in reported lost time 
accidents. This increase was mainly as a result of a manual 
handling issue where more than seven days off normal 
duties was reported (six reports).  Manual handling is 
therefore being reviewed in 2015. It should also be noted 

The latest conversion factors specified in Defra and DECC’s 2014 guidance 
were used as methodology. 28% of our data consumption is based on 
estimate. This is where we are the occupier of a property but do not pay the 
energy bills directly. Estimates are calculated from observed ITV consumption 
intensity and published benchmarks where relevant.

Risk management
Details of our High Impact Low Likelihood (HILL) and 
Strategic risks and our approach to risk management are set 
out on pages 50 to 55.

Likely future developments
Details on strategy are set out in our Strategic Report.

Going concern
The going concern statement is set out on page 113. 

Auditor
During the year the Audit Committee considered the 
performance and audit fees of the external auditor, and the 
level of non-audit work undertaken. They recommended to 
the Board that a resolution for the reappointment of KPMG 
LLP for a further year as the Company’s auditor be proposed 
to shareholders at the AGM in May 2015. 

65

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceDirectors’ Report and Responsibilities continued

Annual General Meeting
The AGM will be held on Thursday, 14 May 2015 at  
11.00 a.m. at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, Broad 
Sanctuary, Westminster, London, SW1P 3EE. The Notice of 
the AGM contains an explanation of special business to be 
considered at the meeting. 

A copy of the Notice is available on our website.

www.itvplc.com/investors/annual-general-meeting

Directors’ responsibilities
The Directors consider that the Annual Report and Accounts, 
taken as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable 
and provides the information necessary for shareholders 
to assess the Company’s and the Group’s performance, 
business model and strategy.

Each of the Directors, whose names and functions are listed 
on page 59, confirm that, to the best of their knowledge:
•	 the Group accounts, which have been prepared in 

accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the EU, give a true 
and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position 
and profit of the Group; and

•	 the Directors’ Report includes a fair review of the 

development and performance of the business and the 
position of the Group, together with a description of the 
principal risks and uncertainties that it faces.

In accordance with Section 418 of the Companies Act 2006, the 
Directors confirm that, so far as they are each aware, there is no 
relevant audit information of which the Company’s auditor is 
unaware; and each Director has taken all steps that they ought 
to have taken as a Director in order to make themselves aware 
of any relevant audit information and to establish that the 
Company’s auditor is aware of that information.

The Board has conducted a review of the effectiveness of 
the Group’s systems of internal controls for the year ended 
31 December 2014. In the opinion of the Board, the Company 
has complied with the internal control requirements of 
the UK Corporate Governance Code throughout the year, 
maintaining an ongoing process for identifying, evaluating, 
and minimising risk. Further information is set out in the 
Audit Committee Report on page 79.

By order of the Board 

Andrew Garard 
Company Secretary 
4 March 2015

ITV plc 
Registered number 4967001

66

The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report 
and the Group and parent company financial statements in 
accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare Group and 
parent company financial statements for each financial 
year. Under that law they are required to prepare the 
Group financial statements in accordance with IFRSs as 
adopted by the EU and applicable law and have elected 
to prepare the parent company financial statements in 
accordance with UK Accounting Standards.

Under company law the Directors must not approve the 
financial statements unless they are satisfied that they 
give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group 
and parent company and of their profit or loss for that 
period. In preparing each of the Group and parent company 
financial statements, the Directors are required:
•	 to select suitable accounting policies and then apply 
•	 to make judgements and estimates that are 
•	 for the Group financial statements, to state whether 
they have been prepared in accordance with IFRSs as 
adopted by the EU;

reasonable and prudent;

them consistently;

•	 for the parent company financial statements, state 
whether applicable UK Accounting Standards have 
been followed, subject to any material departures 
disclosed and explained in the parent company 
financial statements; and

•	 to prepare the financial statements on the going concern 
basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group 
and the parent company will continue in business.

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate 
accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain 
the parent company’s transactions and disclose with 
reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the 
parent company and enable them to ensure that its financial 
statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They have 
general responsibility for taking such steps as are reasonably 
open to them to safeguard the assets of the Group and to 
prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities.

Under applicable law and regulations, the Directors are 
also responsible for preparing a Strategic Report, Directors’ 
Report,  Annual Remuneration Report and Corporate 
Governance Statement that comply with that law and those 
regulations.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and 
integrity of the corporate and financial information included 
on the Company’s website. Legislation in the UK governing 
the preparation and dissemination of financial statements 
may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceChairman’s 
Governance Statement

Board of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

The Board’s primary responsibility is to promote the long 
term success of the Company and to work with the executive 
team, providing support and advice. The Board consistently 
challenges processes, plans and actions and exercises a degree 
of rigorous enquiry and intellectual debate. This serves to 
promote continuous and sustained improvement across the 
business.

The Board was substantially rebuilt in 2010 and we have 
strengthened it further each year. As a result we have a 
Board of high calibre individuals with a wide range of skills 
and experience. We were pleased to welcome Mary Harris to 
the Board in July 2014. 

The Board meets regularly for scheduled Board and 
Committee meetings and has a number of informal 
meetings to consider specific issues. The Board interacts 
frequently with senior executives and subject matter 
experts. This ensures that the Board has a full understanding 
of the business. In 2014, the Board continued its programme 
of visiting different areas of the business. 

We remain committed to sharing our business vision with 
our shareholders by maintaining regular open dialogue 
and effective communication. We believe that continued 
engagement is highly beneficial to all parties as it helps 
to build a greater understanding of our investors’ views, 
opinions and concerns. 

During the year an important focus has been on evolving our 
strategy for the next stage of our development. 

As a listed company, ITV is required to report on how it has 
complied with the principles of governance set out in the UK 
Corporate Governance Code (the Code). The Board considers 
that the Company has complied with the provisions of the Code, 
except in respect of provision C.3.1. Following the departure of 
Lucy Neville-Rolfe in July 2014, the Audit Committee has only 
had two members. The Board is mindful of this and is actively 
seeking an additional Non-executive  Director with relevant skills 
and experience.  

Archie Norman
Chairman 
4 March 2015

67

Archie Norman
Chairman

“ The Board was substantially rebuilt 
in 2010 and we have strengthened 
it further each year. As a result 
we have a Board of high calibre 
individuals with a wide range of 
skills and experience.”

Dear Shareholder,
The Board believes that a high standard of corporate 
governance is a key contributor to the long term success of 
the Company.  

The Board remains committed to ensuring that good 
leadership and the highest standards of corporate governance 
are maintained through a combination of a robust internal 
framework of systems and controls underpinned by the right 
values and culture. This framework of policies and processes 
is regularly reviewed against developments in the legislative, 
regulatory and governance landscape.

This governance report comprises the following sections:
•	 How the Board works
•	 Effectiveness
•	 Relations with shareholders
•	 Audit Committee Report
•	 Annual Remuneration Report
•	 Remuneration Policy

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceCorporate Governance

How the Board works
Our role
The Board as a whole is collectively responsible for delivering 
the long term success of the Company by:
•	 providing entrepreneurial leadership within a framework 
of prudent and effective controls which enable risk to be 
assessed and managed;

•	 supporting the executive team to formulate and execute 

the Company’s long term objectives and strategy, 
ensuring that the necessary financial and other resources 
are in place for the Company to meet its objectives, and 
reviewing management performance; and

•	 setting the Company’s values and standards and ensuring 
that its obligations to its shareholders and others are 
understood and met.

There is a schedule of specific matters reserved to the Board 
for decision which is available on our website. 

www.itvplc.com/about/governance

What we focused on in 2014

•	 Strategy evolution

•	

International content strategy

•	 Pension investment strategy

•	 Acquisition evaluation and management

•	 Risk appetite, profile and mitigation

Our plans for 2015

•	 Broadcast strategy focusing on SOV

•	

International content strategy

•	 Online, Pay & Interactive strategy

•	 Retransmission fees and the regulatory 

environment

Our governance structure

Board
Chairman, two Executive Directors and five Non-executive Directors

Management Board
Executive Directors and Senior
Executives of Group functions 
and divisional businesses

General Purpose 
Committee
Executive Directors

Remuneration 
Committee
Chairman and two  
Non-executive Directors

Divisional Boards
Executive Directors and Senior 
Executives of divisional businesses

Disclosure Committee
Executive Directors and other 
Senior Managers

Audit Committee
Two Non-executive Directors

Details of Board membership 
during 2014 are set out on 
page 70.

Tax and Treasury
Committee
Group Finance Director and
other Senior Managers

Nomination 
Committee
Chairman and  
Non-executive Directors

68

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Our meetings
The number of meetings held during the year and attendance 
of Directors is set out in the table on page 70. The Board 
agrees an annual schedule of matters it wishes to consider 
at each of its meetings and those of its committees. The 
schedule ensures that all relevant matters are considered and 
receive appropriate attention. Meetings are normally held at 
one of the London sites and at least once a year they are held 
at one of the regional or international offices. Board meetings 
are structured around the following areas:
•	 Operational and functional updates
•	 Financial updates
•	 Strategy and risk
•	 Progress against strategy
•	 Other reporting and items for approval
•	 Feedback from committees
Senior Executives and other colleagues are regularly invited 
to attend meetings for specific items. In addition to formal 
Board and Committee meetings, meetings take place 
between:
•	 Board members and Management Board members
•	 Chairman and Non-executive Directors 
•	 Senior Independent Director and Non-executive Directors 

(without the Chairman present)

The diagram on page 68 shows our governance structure.

The Board has approved a formal framework for the 
approval of expenditure within the Company around this 
governance structure.

Who is on our Board and how  
we work as a team
Composition and appointments
In July 2014 the Board appointed Mary Harris as a Non-
executive Director. Mary was selected from a number 
of potential candidates. The Board felt that Mary’s 
experience in business strategy as well as media, television, 
and interactive media investments and digital rights 
management would be an asset to the Board. Executive 
search firm Russell Reynolds were engaged to assist with the 
rigorous selection process. Russell Reynolds have no other 
connection with ITV.

Lucy Neville-Rolfe stepped down from the Board on 
17 July 2014.  

Non-executive Directors 
are appointed for an initial

3 year term

and are reappointed annually thereafter

As recommended by the Code, there will be resolutions to 
elect or re-elect each of the Directors at the AGM in May 2015.

Non-executive Directors are expected to commit at least 18 
to 20 days per annum and in practice spend considerably 
more than this. The Board is satisfied that each of the Non-
executive Directors commits sufficient time to the business 
of the Company. An outline of the terms of engagement for 
the Non-executive Directors can be found on our website. 

www.itvplc.com/about/governance

Non-executive Directors are appointed for an initial three 
year term and are reappointed annually thereafter following 
a formal, robust evaluation process.

During the year both John Ormerod’s and Andy Haste’s 
appointments were extended for a further 12 months. John 
Ormerod’s appointment was again extended in January 2015.
John Ormerod and Andy Haste have been Non-executive 
Directors for over six years. The Board continues to believe 
that they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their 
deliberations and provide a valuable contribution as Chairmen 
of the Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee 
respectively.  

Skills and experience
There are job descriptions in place for each of the Chairman, 
the Chief Executive, and the Senior Independent Director 
which have been agreed by the Board.

Biographical details for the Directors are set out on page 59, 
with fuller biographies available on our website.

www.itvplc.com/about/management/board-of-directors

The Board is still of the view that the Non-executive Directors 
are independent in both character and judgement. They 
constructively challenge and help develop proposals on strategy, 
scrutinise the performance of management in meeting agreed 
goals and objectives and monitor the reporting of performance.

The Board works well together, bringing strong, 
independent, balanced judgement, knowledge and 
experience to its deliberations. Each Non-executive Director 
has appropriate skills and experience so that their views 
carry significant weight in the decision making.

69

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernance 
Corporate Governance continued

Board and Committee membership and attendance at meetings in 2014
Scheduled meetings are shown in black and ad hoc meetings are shown in orange.

Status

Notes

Date of appointment 
to the Board

Time 
in 
office
Y/M

Contract renewal 
date

1 June 2016

n/a

Peter Bazalgette
Adam Crozier
Roger Faxon

Independent
Executive
Independent

1
2

1 June 2013

1/8
26 April 2010 4/10

31 October 2012

2/4 31 October 2015

Ian Griffiths

Mary Harris

Executive

Independent

3

2 9 September 2008

6/5
28 July 2014 0/7

n/a

28 July 2017

Independent 
SID

Andy Haste
Lucy Neville-Rolfe Independent
Independent 
Chairman
Independent

Archie Norman
John Ormerod

11 August 2008 6/6 11 August 2015

4
5 3 September 2010

-

n/a

1 January 2010
18 January 2008

5/2 1 January 2016
7/1 18 January 2016

Nomination
Committee

Remuneration
Committee

Audit
Committee

Board

10

10
10
10

10

3

9
7

10
10

1

1
–
1

–

1

1
0

1
1

6

3
–
–

–

–

6
–

6
6

1

1
–
–

–
–

1
–

1
1

5

–
–
–

–

–

5
2

–
5

2

–
–
–

–
–

2
1

–
2

1.  Peter Bazalgette was appointed to the Remuneration Committee on 1 June 2014 and so did not attend the three meetings held prior to his appointment.
2.  Executive Directors have rolling service contracts that provide for 12 months’ notice on either side.  For more details see page 94.
3.  Mary Harris was appointed to the Board on 28 July 2014. Seven of the ten scheduled Board meetings were held prior to her appointment.
4.  Andy Haste did not attend a scheduled Board meeting on 30 September 2014 due to other Board commitments.
5.  Lucy Neville-Rolfe stepped down from the Board on 17 July 2014. 

Our committees
The Board has delegated certain responsibilities to its 
committees. The terms of reference for each committee are 
reviewed annually and the current versions are available on 
our website.

www.itvplc.com/about/governance

Audit Committee
See the Audit Committee Report on page 75.

Remuneration Committee
See the Annual Remuneration Report on page 82.

Nomination Committee
This committee is composed of the Non-executive Directors.

The role of the Nomination Committee is to:
•	 review the structure, size, and composition of the Board, 

including skills, knowledge and experience;

•	 identify and nominate for Board approval candidates to 

fill Board vacancies; 

•	 consider succession planning for Directors and other 

Senior Executives; and

•	 consider and review any conflicts of interest that may be 

reported by the Directors.

In addition to considering matters under its terms of 
reference, the Committee considered candidates for a 
Non-executive Director appointment. Further details are 
set out in the Composition and Appointments section on 
page 69. The Committee also reviewed a detailed succession 
planning framework and undertook an annual review of 
conflicts of interest.

Full details of attendance at committee meetings can be 
found in the table above.

The Company also has the following committees:

General Purpose Committee: the Committee is composed 
of the Executive Directors. The Committee meets as 
required to conduct the Company’s business within the 
clearly defined limits delegated by the Board and subject to 
those matters reserved to the Board.

70

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Disclosure Committee: the Committee is composed of 
the Executive Directors and other members of the senior 
management team. The function of the Committee, in 
accordance with the Company’s Inside Information Policy, is 
to ensure compliance with continuing obligations under the 
Disclosure and Transparency Rules and the Listing Rules.

Tax and Treasury Committee: the Committee is composed 
of the Group Finance Director and other senior managers 
from Tax, Treasury, Finance and Legal. The function of the 
Committee is to consider and approve (in line with authority 
delegated by the Board) tax and treasury-related matters in 
respect of corporate transactions or activities such as bank 
account management, borrowings, acquisitions, financing 
and hedging transactions, intercompany transactions, 
incorporation/liquidation of Group subsidiaries and  
guarantees. In addition, the Committee has a monitoring 
role over general compliance with tax and treasury related 
policies and procedures.

Effectiveness
Evaluation
In 2012 the Board’s effectiveness was externally reviewed 
by YSC, a global firm of business psychologists. One of the 
outcomes was an ongoing programme facilitated by YSC.  
The review focused on roles and responsibilities, culture, 
balance of skills and experience, diversity, how the Board 
works together and how effective the Directors are in 
assisting the executive team in achievement of the strategy.

YSC have also been involved in supporting the review of 
the Board make-up and composition. They have no other 
connection with the Company.

The work of the Board and its committees is reviewed 
annually with the support of the Company Secretary. In 
2014 particular focus was on the effectiveness of our board 
committees.

In accordance with the Code the Chairman will be 
undertaking an externally facilitated board and committee 
evaluation in 2015.

Succession planning and diversity
Board tenure
All Directors are required by the Company’s Articles of 
Association to be elected by shareholders at the first AGM 
following their appointment by the Board. Subsequently, all 
Directors are subject to annual re-election by shareholders 
as recommended by the Code. 

0–2 years
25%

2–4 years
12.5%

4–7 years
62.5%

Succession planning
The Board has agreed a succession planning framework to 
ensure that:
•	 Board tenure is appropriate and encourages fresh 

thinking and new ideas;

•	 the Board is sufficiently diverse but most importantly has 
the appropriate mix of generalist and specialist skills; and

•	 Non-executive Directors have the appropriate level of 
independence, from the executive and each other.

The Board keeps this under constant review.

When planning succession within the Company 
consideration is given to emergency cover together with 
medium and long term succession. There is particular 
emphasis on growing the internal leadership pipeline 
through the launch of the following key programmes:

Executive Development Programme

Next generation potential Board successors, giving them 
an opportunity to develop their management potential 
and gain a greater understanding of the business.

Developing Future Leaders Programme

Delegates selected from across the business identified 
as a result of the performance review process. Content 
includes understanding what it means to be a leader at 
ITV, how to manage performance effectively, coaching 
skills and change management.

Graduate Programme

Apprentice Programme

A comprehensive portfolio of development courses and 
workshops for all colleagues which address common 
development needs is in place.

71

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceCorporate Governance continued

•	 receive information about the Company’s corporate 
governance practices and procedures and the latest 
financial information about the Group; and

•	 are advised of their legal and other duties and obligations 

as a director of a listed company.

This is supplemented by visits to key locations, including 
studios and regional sites, and meetings with key senior 
executives and with major shareholders where appropriate.

The key stages of the induction programme are:

Stage 1

Provision of documents

Stage 2

Meeting with Chief 
Executive and Group 
Finance Director

Meetings with 
Non-executive Directors

Meetings with 
Management Board 
members and other 
Senior Executives

Stage 3

Site visits

Duties of a director, 
Board procedures, Board 
and strategy papers and 
corporate governance

Business overview, 
strategy, current trading and 
key commercial issues

Open discussion forums

Commercial issues 
and projects

Understanding 
of the business and 
operations

Additional specific induction programmes are in place when 
Non-executive Directors join committees.

Diversity 
It is our policy to retain a strong but relatively small Board 
bringing a balance of in-depth commercial and creative 
experience. It continues to be the Board’s intention to 
increase the diverse make-up and representation as 
opportunities arise, but given the size of the Board specific 
formulaic targets are not appropriate.

Diversity within the organisation is integral to achieving 
our business aims. Reflecting the demographics of our 
customers and understanding their needs ensures that 
our brand, services and products are accessible, inclusive 
and have wide appeal. The Company’s aim is to represent 
modern Britain both within the organisation and across 
our products and services. Year-on-year progress has been 
achieved in working towards this target. Key activity in 2014 
included:
•	 Introduction of the Social Partnership. A framework for 
all programme suppliers that outlines ITV’s expectations 
when it comes to diversity and inclusion within both the 
workforce and programme content. 

•	 Sustaining programme portrayal monitoring across 75% 
of our programmes. ITV is also sharing best practice and 
leading on the technical development of a pan-industry 
monitoring process to capture diversity data and areas for 
improvement across the industry’s supply chain.

•	 Continuation of programmes and initiatives to develop 
minority talent such as our ‘Breaking through Talent’ 
and ‘Original Voices’ scheme in drama to our continued 
support of the inaugural Asia Media Awards.

•	 Continued Chairmanship (Adam Crozier) of the Creative 
Diversity Network. The industry’s network looks at joint 
action and responsibility for addressing representation 
and inclusion across the industry.

Induction 
The Company has a policy and programme for induction 
and continuing professional development of Directors. On 
appointment, each Director takes part in a comprehensive 
induction programme where they:
•	 receive information about the Group in the form of 

presentations by Executives from all parts of the business 
and on the regulatory environment;

•	 meet representatives of the Company’s key advisers;
•	 receive information about the role of the Board and the 
matters reserved for its decision, the terms of reference 
and membership of Board committees and the powers 
delegated to those committees;

72

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Continuing professional development
During their period in office, the Directors are continually 
updated on the Group’s businesses and the competitive and 
regulatory environments in which they operate. This is done 
through:
•	 updates and papers which cover changes affecting the 

Group and the market in which it operates; 

•	 meetings with senior executives across the Group and key 

advisers;

•	 regular updates on changes to the legal and governance 
requirements of the Group and in relation to their own 
position as Directors; and

•	 presentations given at board and committee meetings 
on business matters and technical update sessions from 
external advisers where appropriate.

As part of their professional development Executive 
Directors may accept external appointments as Non-
executive Directors of other companies and retain any 
related fees paid to them. Details of positions held and fees 
received by Executive Directors in 2014 can be found on 
page 94. 

Conflicts of interest
The Board has delegated the authorisation of conflicts to 
the Nomination Committee and has adopted a Conflicts of 
Interest Policy.

The Board has considered in detail the current external 
appointments of the Directors which may give rise to a 
situational conflict and has authorised potential conflicts 
where appropriate.

This authorisation can be reviewed at any time but will 
always be subject to annual review. The Board is confident 
that these procedures operate effectively.

Insurance and indemnities
The Company maintains liability insurance for its Directors 
and officers which is renewed on an annual basis. The 
Company has also entered into deeds of indemnity with 
its Directors. A copy of the indemnity can be found on our 
website.

www.itvplc.com/about/governance

Relations with shareholders
The Board attaches a high priority to effective 
communication with shareholders and has regular and open 
dialogue with investors. The Board believes that continued 
engagement with shareholders is beneficial to both ITV and 
its stakeholders as it helps to build a greater understanding 
of investors’ views, opinions and concerns. Adam Crozier, 
Ian Griffiths and our investor relations team meet with 
many institutional investors throughout the year to keep 
them updated on the Company’s performance against our 
strategy. These range from one-to-one meetings to group 
presentations including the Full Year and Interim results and 
the AGM. Specifically, following the Full Year and Interim 
results one-to-one meetings are held with our largest 
institutional investors.

The Chairman also responds to shareholder queries and 
holds meetings where appropriate.

The Company maintains a programme of engagement with 
the investment community, including results presentations, 
briefings to brokers and other sales forces and attendance at 
a number of investor conferences. 

Presentations given to the 
investment community are available 
to download from our website

www.itvplc.com/investors

We regularly seek feedback on the perception of the 
Company amongst shareholders and the investor 
community more broadly via our corporate brokers. Investor 
comments are fed back to the Board and its committees 
regularly.

Private shareholders represent more than 92% of our 
shareholders, holding 2.93% of our shares. We encourage 
shareholders to register their email addresses to receive 
information from us in a timely manner. 

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Corporate Governance continued

AGM
The AGM will be held on Thursday, 14 May 2015 (further 
details can be found on page 65). The Notice of Meeting 
sets out the resolutions being proposed. The Notice, 
together with any related documents, is made available to 
shareholders on our website or is mailed to them, if they 
have elected to receive hard copies, at least 20 working days 
before the meeting. Last year all resolutions were passed.  
Details of the votes cast on each resolution are on our 
website.

www.itvplc.com/investors/annual-general-meeting

In 2014 the meeting was attended by 125 shareholders. 
Shareholders are invited to meet the Directors prior to 
and after the formal proceedings. At the meeting the 
Chairman and Chief Executive will review the Group’s current 
trading which is followed by a question and answer session. 
Separate resolutions are proposed on each substantially 
separate issue and all resolutions are taken on a poll. The 
level of votes lodged on each resolution is made available 
on a regulatory information service and on the Company’s 
website as soon as possible after the meeting.

www.itvplc.com/investors/annual-general-meeting

Shareholders who are not able to attend the meeting can 
vote online in advance via our website or by completing and 
returning a form of proxy.

Save in exceptional circumstances, all members of the Board 
will attend the AGM.

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Board of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Dear Shareholder,
On the following pages we set out the Audit Committee’s 
Report for 2014. The report comprises four sections:
•	 How the Committee works
•	 What we focused on in 2014
•	 Internal controls
•	 Our auditors
This is our second year of providing more extensive reporting 
on the work of the Committee. In addition to providing a 
general overview of the scope we have sought to identify 
areas of particular focus in the year. These include:
•	 Acquisitions: we have continued to invest in our production 

business in particular outside the UK. The Committee engages 
at an early stage with all significant potential acquisitions. 
We review with management the approach to due diligence 
and review the results of that work prior to submission to the 
Board. We consider carefully the appropriate accounting for 
arrangements which are designed both to incentivise creative 
talent and manage financial risk.

•	 Investment in programmes: in line with our strategy 
we have started to invest in production of high end 
drama both in the UK and the US. These projects carry 
some increased financial risks, primarily because the 
production cost is only partially covered by pre-selling to 
the network, leaving a “deficit” which we seek to recover 
through international distribution. The Committee 
considers the appropriate accounting for the investment 
and subsequently reviews management’s assessment of 
the carrying value of the assets.

•	 Technology: technology is key to our competitive 

success in areas such as online but also to improving our 
operational efficiency. The Committee has continued to 
review the plans and controls over technology change 
and for maintaining control in areas where legacy systems 
continue to operate.

We continue to focus on financial reporting judgements and 
disclosure and in challenging management to develop controls 
to anticipate future opportunities and risk.  Management 
is committed to continuous improvement. For example in 
2014, a Tax and Treasury Committee was established to 
which I am invited and I attended one of its early meetings. 
New procedures are also being implemented to improve the 
coordination of risk management across the business. 

Since Lucy Neville-Rolfe left the Board we have been a 
Committee of two. This is not ideal and the Nomination 
Committee is looking to strengthen the Committee’s 
membership in 2015.  

We seek to respond to shareholders’ expectation of audit 
committee reporting and would welcome feedback. 

John Ormerod
Chairman, Audit Committee 
4 March 2015

75

John Ormerod
Chairman, Audit Committee

“ We continue to focus on financial 
reporting judgements and 
disclosure and in challenging 
management to develop controls  
to anticipate future opportunities 
and risk.”

 In this report . . . 

The purpose of this report is to highlight areas that the 
Committee has reviewed during the year, reporting 
back to shareholders the significant financial reporting 
issues and judgements made in connection with the 
preparation of the Company’s financial statements. 
The report also notes any areas or specific topics, 
such as risk, that the Committee has reviewed. Also 
highlighted is how the Committee has assisted the 
Board in reviewing the Company’s internal control 
environment, and what the Committee has done to 
review the effectiveness of both internal and external 
auditors. The report describes what the Committee 
does, and what processes and controls are in place 
to help ensure that the Annual Report presents a fair, 
balanced and understandable view of the business.

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceAudit Committee Report continued

Our role
The role of the Committee includes to:
•	 monitor the integrity of the published financial 

information of the Company;

•	 review and report to the Board on the significant 
financial reporting issues and judgements made in 
connection with the preparation of the published 
financial information of the Company (having regard 
to matters communicated by the auditor);

•	 review the consistency of, ongoing appropriateness 
of, and changes to, accounting policies and consider 
the methods used to account for significant or 
unusual transactions;

•	 review the effectiveness of the internal control and 

risk management processes;

•	 review the Company’s whistleblowing process;
•	 review and approve the internal audit plan;
•	 monitor and review the effectiveness and 
independence of the internal audit function;

•	 monitor and review the effectiveness of 

management in addressing internal and external 
audit actions;

•	 review the quality and effectiveness of the external 
audit and the procedures and controls designed to 
ensure auditor independence; 

•	 consider and make recommendations to the Board 
in relation to the appointment, reappointment, 
replacement, and remuneration of the Company’s 
external auditor; and

•	 where requested by the Board, provide advice on 
whether the Annual Report and Accounts, taken as 
a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable and 
provides the information necessary for shareholders 
to assess the Company’s performance, business 
model and strategy.

The Committee’s terms of reference can be accessed on 
our website .

www.itvplc.com/about/governance

Who is on the Committee

The Committee is composed entirely of 
Non-executive Directors. The current members are:
•	 John Ormerod (Chairman)
•	 Andy Haste
Lucy Neville-Rolfe stepped down from the Board and 
as a member of the Committee on 17 July 2014.

Full details of attendance at Committee meetings can 
be found on the table on page 70.

How the Committee works
Whilst the Committee members have between them a 
wide range of business and financial experience we are 
mindful that membership of the Committee needs to be 
strengthened, which is being addressed. The Committee 
considers that John Ormerod has recent and relevant 
financial experience for the purposes of the Code. 

The Chief Executive, Group Finance Director and internal and 
external auditors attended meetings during the course of 
the year at the invitation of the Chairman of the Committee. 
Members of the Management Board and other senior 
management have attended certain meetings by invitation. 
The Committee as a whole has regular private sessions 
with both internal and external auditors and also, when 
appropriate, with the Group Finance Director.

In addition, throughout the year the Chairman of the 
Committee has individual sessions with the other 
Committee member and meets informally, and has open 
lines of communication, with the Group Finance Director, 
Head of Internal Audit and the senior engagement team 
from the external auditor. This group generally meets ahead 
of each full Committee meeting to prepare and identify key 
areas for consideration. 

The Committee works to a structured programme of 
activities with agenda items focused to coincide with key 
events of the annual financial reporting cycle, themes or 
areas of risk that the Committee has identified, together 
with standing items that the Committee is required to 
consider regularly under its terms of reference. Reports 
are provided by management, internal audit, and external 
audit, addressing the key risks and reporting matters faced 
by the Group. Following each meeting the Committee 
communicates its main discussion points and findings to  
the Board. 

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Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

In addition to formal meetings, from time to time, 
Committee members have informal briefings on topics 
relevant to the Committee’s work from members of the 
operational and financial management teams and external 
auditor.   

In reviewing the various topics on its agenda the Committee 
members receive input from management, internal 
audit and external audit as appropriate. Committee 
members draw upon this and their own experience to 
provide a constructive challenge to the judgements made 
by management and consider alternative scenarios or 
accounting treatments in reaching their conclusions.

What we focused on in 2014
In planning its own agenda, and reviewing the audit plan 
of the internal and external auditor, the Committee takes 
account of significant issues and risks, both operational 
and financial, likely to impact on the Company’s financial 
statements. The Committee also addresses specific queries 
referred to it by the Board or Remuneration Committee. 

An annual review of the performance of the Committee 
was conducted for the year. In addition to feedback from 
members of the Committee, input was sought from the 
Group Finance Director, external auditors, Internal Audit and 
the Chairman of the Board. Overall, the review concluded 
that the Committee is responding appropriately to its terms 
of reference and will continue to develop its role.   

Below is a summary of some of the more significant risks 
and issues discussed in the year by the Committee. 

During 2014 there were no topics where there was 
significant disagreement between management, our 
external auditor and the Committee, or unresolved issues 
which needed to be referred to the Board.

Financial reporting
As part of the Committee’s review of the Interim and Full 
Year financial statements, the following were discussed:

Complex discrete transactions in the year
The Group completed certain transactions during the period 
which were outside the normal course of business. The 
Committee carefully reviewed these one-off transactions 
to ensure that the judgements applied by management 
were reasonable and any complex accounting guidance 
followed correctly. The topics discussed in the year covered 
acquisitions and strategic investments. 

Acquisition accounting for Leftfield (see note 3.4 for 
details of acquisitions): following the acquisition of 
Leftfield, the Committee ensured consistency in application 
of principles to previous deals and reviewed the treatment 
and presentation of performance-related commitments 
between ITV and the sellers:
•	 Consistent application of acquisition accounting: as 
part of the review of the acquisition of Leftfield, the 
Committee reviewed the areas of judgement applied 
by management around control, the valuation of 
intangibles, and the put option valuation. The Committee 
concluded that the assumptions and judgements taken 
by management were on a basis consistent with previous 
acquisitions and IFRSs.

•	 Performance-related consideration: the Leftfield 

acquisition structure allowed for a further amount payable 
(‘top up payment’) or receivable (‘performance adjustment’) 
based on stretching performance of the business in the 
two years following acquisition. Structuring the deal this 
way helped manage risks in terms of initial capital outlay 
and created a joint incentive between ITV and the previous 
owners to grow the business. At the year end management 
considered it appropriate to include a performance 
adjustment in the goodwill calculation. The Committee 
discussed management’s analysis for adjusting goodwill 
rather than the income statement and the Committee 
concluded that management’s analysis was fair.

Strategic investments: during the year management 
acquired small equity interests in four different businesses. 
Although the total investment value is not significant, the 
Committee considered it important to discuss whether 
as a result of the investment the Group had significant 
influence over these businesses. This determines whether 
an acquisition is treated as an associate or as an investment.  
The Committee debated management’s role in the 
business operations of the investment, and concluded that 
management’s analysis and treatment as an investment was 
appropriate.  

Recurring transactions in the year  
There are a number of areas where the Group transacts 
as part of its business as usual. However, these areas may 
require the application of judgement by management or 
have underlying complexity that should be considered on an 
ongoing basis by the Committee. 

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Consequently, the following key topics are reviewed by 
the Committee:

Revenue: every year the Committee considers 
management’s assessment of the Group’s internal controls 
framework, which includes control over revenue. In 2014 
the Committee requested an internal audit exercise to 
specifically review the risks and controls surrounding each 
of the Group’s main revenue streams, including NAR and ITV 
Studios revenue. The Committee reviewed Internal Audit’s 
findings and agreed that the Group’s processes and controls 
around existing revenue streams have remained consistent 
and effective during the year.

Deal debt: deal debt is where management provides for 
over/under delivery of advertising value to agencies. The 
Committee reviews management’s approach and method of 
determining the provision required and ensures consistency 
is applied in estimating inputs. The Committee is satisfied 
that the provision has been calculated on an appropriate 
and consistent basis with prior years.

Other topics also reviewed during the year included:

Royalty accruals: the Group is required to make royalty 
payments for content broadcast and distributed where we 
do not own all the rights. Such payments are in accordance 
with individual contracts, and the large variety of terms 
results in a complex and manual process. After an annual 
review of processes and controls, the Committee was 
satisfied with the improvements management continues 
to make in the controls over royalty payments and as with 
previous years, the Committee considered the estimated 
accrual to be reasonable. 

Deficit financing: as part of management’s strategy to 
expand its content portfolio, significant investment in 
high end drama was made during the year. The Committee 
has reviewed and considered the accounting implications, 
including revenue recognition and recoverability of the 
deficits invested. The Committee concluded that the 
accounting treatment was appropriate. 

Pension accounting: the Group’s defined benefit pension 
scheme is a significant net liability on the Group’s balance 
sheet (see note 3.7) and the value of the scheme liabilities 
will fluctuate due to changes in underlying assumptions 
(and the assets are held at market value). The main 
assumptions which drive the fluctuations in liabilities 
include the forecast bond yield rates and the forecast 
inflation rate. The Committee considered both the process 
management undertook to finalise the assumptions, and 
how these assumptions benchmark against the market. The 
Committee concluded that the process was robust and the 
resulting calculation appropriately balanced. 

78

Tax: the Group recognises certain provisions and accruals 
in respect of tax. The Committee debated the nature and 
key risks which give rise to corporate tax, payroll and VAT 
issues, and discussed the activities when management 
undertakes to resolve the matters that give rise to such 
provisions. Where support from our tax advisers is received, 
the results and views of their work are also reviewed. The 
Committee concluded that the provisions at the year end 
were appropriate (see note 2.3).

Identification of Cash Generating Units (CGU): every year 
the Committee considers management’s identification of 
CGUs for the purposes of testing for impairment of goodwill. 
Following the additional acquisitions made by ITV Studios 
during 2014, the Committee debated how assets and 
resources are shared across the ITV Studios division and the 
level of integration within the management structure for 
the purposes of reporting and strategic decision-making. 
The Committee concluded that a single ITV Studios CGU 
continued to be appropriate.

Risk management
The Committee continued to consider the process for 
managing risk within the business. 

HILL 
risks

Strategic risks

Process level risks

Every year the Board and senior management
review and challenge the Group’s High Impact
Low Likelihood (HILL) risks, and the Strategic risks.
Each risk is assigned an owner and has a series
of mitigating actions identified.

An updated list of risks is included within the Strategic 
Report on pages 50 to 55.

For the Group’s HILL risks the Committee reviewed the 
Group’s current level of exposure and considered the 
appropriateness of the mitigating actions being taken by 
management. 

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

The Committee also considered management’s response 
to strategic risk, including the level of assurance provided 
around the risk and how the risk is tracked using key risk 
indicators. With regard to process risks the Committee 
reviewed how effective management was in addressing the 
findings of internal and external audit, as well as the method 
by which management accepted process risks. 

The Committee has in place a rolling programme to review 
key compliance and other risk.

The Committee was comfortable with the processes in place 
for risk management, that the Internal Audit plan for 2015 
was aligned to the highlighted risks and with those process 
risks that have been accepted.

Internal Controls
The Board has overall responsibility for the Group’s 
systems of internal control and for regularly reviewing the 
effectiveness of those systems. The Committee assists the 
Board in reviewing the Group’s systems of internal control.  
The primary responsibility for the operation of these 
systems is delegated to management. Such systems can 
only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance against 
material misstatement or loss. Key control procedures are 
designed to manage rather than eliminate risk and can be 
summarised as follows:
•	 Strategy and financial reporting: the strategy is 

reviewed and approved by the Board. The Group performs 
a comprehensive annual strategy review and a rolling five 
year financial planning exercise. The five year plan feeds 
into the annual budget cycle. The Executive Directors 
review formal forecasts, detailed budgets, strategies and 
action plans and the Board approves the overall Group 
budget as part of its normal responsibilities. The results 
of operating units are reported monthly, along with an 
update of the Group’s performance against strategic KPIs 
and cash. Actual results are compared to budget and 
forecasts, and key trends and variances are explained and 
analysed.

•	 Organisational structure and authorisation procedures: 
the Group has an established organisational structure 
with clearly stated lines of responsibility, approval levels 
and delegated authorities.

•	 Risk identification and assessment: management is 
responsible for identifying the risks facing the business 
and for establishing controls and procedures to monitor 
and mitigate those risks. 

•	 Risk appetite and management: the Board is 

responsible for establishing risk appetite and a robust 
risk management process and for regularly reviewing the 
identified risks. The Committee keeps the effectiveness 
of the process under regular review. 

•	 Control environment: financial controls, policies and 

procedures are considered as part of the Group’s ongoing 
risk assessment process. These controls are reviewed 
to ensure risks are identified and the processes and 
procedures are in accordance with and aligned to the 
strategy. The Internal Audit team provides objective 
assurance as to the effectiveness of the Group’s systems 
of internal control and risk management, reporting to 
both the Management Board and the Committee.
•	 Reviewing and monitoring the effectiveness of 
internal controls: controls are monitored by senior 
management, internal audit and the Committee.  
Remedial plans are put in place where controls are weak 
or there are opportunities for improvement. Serious 
control weaknesses (if any) are reported to the Board and 
action taken as appropriate.

•	 Post-acquisition review: when introducing the Group’s 
procedures and control environment to an acquisition, 
management is responsible for ensuring that key areas of 
governance are implemented and that operational and 
financial processes are aligned to the Group. A full post-
acquisition review is presented to the Committee in the 
year following the acquisition.

•	 Data analytics: the Group has a suite of automated 

analytics tests that enables the Group to continuously 
highlight exceptions from the norm over its transactional 
financial data. The analytics have been expanded and 
have contributed to a stronger and more efficient control 
environment.

Technology Risk
As we execute our strategy the technology infrastructure 
has to evolve to support new revenue streams. Legacy 
systems supporting the existing business remain in place. 
It therefore remains important to have an effective 
technology governance framework that seeks to address the 
risks arising from the above environment. 

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As part of ongoing governance the Committee reviewed 
cyber security, which is a priority as the frequency and 
sophistication of attacks increases. In 2013, management 
initiated a review of cyber security within ITV which 
highlighted a number of areas to enhance our controls and 
readiness. In 2014 Internal Audit assessed progress against 
agreed recommendations and evaluated that relevant 
progress had been made. This will continue to be an area 
of focus for management and the Committee in 2015 and 
beyond.

Whistleblowing
ITV has arrangements in place that enable employees to 
raise concerns in confidence about any possible risks to 
employees, clients or the Company. In 2014 ITV asked the 
whistleblowing charity Public Concern at Work to carry 
out an independent review of these arrangements and it 
was concluded that they were proportionate and allowed 
independent investigation of matters raised and for follow-
up action to be carried out. ITV became a signatory to The 
First 100 campaign which seeks to champion enlightened 
organisations who are committed to ensuring that their 
arrangements meet best practice.

Our auditors 
Internal auditor
The Group’s internal audit activity is outsourced to Deloitte 
who report directly to the Committee. The Committee keeps 
under review the internal audit relationship with Deloitte 
and the procedures to ensure appropriate independence of 
the internal audit function is maintained. In particular, the 
Committee has approved guidelines in relation to other 
advisory and consultancy work that Deloitte may undertake 
for the Company, which adheres to the underlying principle 
that they cannot implement controls that they audit. Other 
services provided by Deloitte included tax and corporate 
finance advice.

Until November 2014, Deloitte were the Group’s 
Remuneration Committee advisers. Following a review, FIT 
Remuneration Consultants were appointed as advisers. 

The effectiveness of internal audit is assessed over the year 
using a number of measures which include (but are not 
limited to):
•	 an evaluation of each audit assignment completed using 
feedback from the part of the business that has been 
audited; and

•	 a high level annual review that is completed by obtaining 
feedback from senior management in each division.

At the start of the year the Committee considered and 
approved the internal audit plan, which included audits 
across the Group as well as assurance over live projects. 
During the year the Committee reviewed findings from 
these internal audit reports, the actions taken to implement 
the recommendations made in the reports and the status of 
progress against previously agreed actions. All internal audit 
reports are available to the Committee as required. 

External auditor
Auditor engagement
Throughout the year the Committee received reports from 
the auditor (KPMG) on their plans and the progress and 
results of their work.

The Committee considers carefully the scope of planned 
work and the assessment of risk and materiality on 
which it is based. In particular through the Chairman the 
Committee participates in the negotiation of the audit fee 
arrangements to ensure that there is an appropriate balance 
between the scope of work and the cost of assurance. The 
Committee’s aim is to support a robust and effective audit 
and strong reporting lines to the Committee. 

In 2012 the Committee conducted a tender process for 
external audit services, the main outcome of which was the 
reappointment of KPMG, and a plan for the development of 
the external audit approach over a two to three year period. 
The Committee continues to monitor the implementation 
of these changes. 

Having recommended the reappointment of KPMG in 
2012 following a competitive tender the Committee does 
not propose seeking further competitive proposals in 
2015. However the Committee will monitor the upcoming  
changes in regulation for auditor appointments and, once 
we understand how the EU Regulations will be implemented 
in the UK, we will comply with any applicable new 
requirements. 

Auditor effectiveness
Audit quality is reviewed throughout the year with the focus 
on: strong audit governance; the firm’s methodology and 
its effective application to ITV; robustness of challenges and 
findings on areas which require management judgement; 
and the quality of the senior members of the audit team. 

In particular, the effectiveness of the audit is assessed over 
the year using a number of measures including (but not 
limited to):
•	 reviewing the quality and scope of planning of the audit 
and its responsiveness to changes in our business;

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Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

•	 implementation of planned improvements;
•	 monitoring the independence and transparency of the 

audit;

•	 reviewing the Financial Reporting Council’s Audit Quality 
Review (AQR) reports for KPMG and other audit firms; and
•	 seeking feedback from KPMG on any external or internal 

quality review of our audit.

At the conclusion of each year’s audit the Committee 
performs a specific evaluation of the performance of 
the external auditor. This is supported by the results of 
questionnaires completed by the Executive Directors and 
relevant senior management, both finance and non-finance, 
covering areas such as quality of audit team, business 
understanding, audit approach and management. Where 
appropriate, actions are agreed against the points raised 
and subsequently monitored for progress. There were no 
significant findings from the evaluation this year and the 
Committee considers the external audit to have been robust 
and effective.

Independence, objectivity and fees
The Committee seeks to ensure the objectivity and 
independence of our auditor through:
•	 focus on the assignment and rotation of key personnel; 
•	 the adequacy of audit resource; and 
•	 policies in relation to non-audit work.
The senior audit partner serves no more than five years 
continuously and the independent review partner serves 
no more than seven years continuously. Other key partners 
serve for no longer than seven consecutive years. The 
Committee monitors the tenure of partners and senior staff 
as well as former employees working for the Company. The 
appointment by the Company of former senior employees 
of the external auditor would require approval of the 
Committee.

The Committee regularly monitors the other services 
being provided to the Group by its external auditor, and has 
developed a formal policy to ensure this does not impair 
their independence or objectivity. The policy is based on 
the five key principles which underpin the provision of other 
services by the external auditor. These are that the auditor 
may not provide a service which:

•	 places them in a position to audit their own work;
•	 creates a mutuality of interest;
•	 results in the auditor developing close personal 

relationships with ITV employees;

•	 results in the auditor functioning as a manager or 

employee of ITV; or

•	 puts the auditor in the role of advocate for ITV.
The policy is reviewed annually and is available in full on our 
website.

www.itvplc.com/about/governance

Other than in exceptional circumstances management and 
the Committee do not expect non-audit fees to be in excess 
of fees for audit and audit-related services. The non-audit 
fees for 2014 were just over half that of the audit fees. A 
report on the level of non-audit work provided by the auditor 
is given to the Committee half yearly. No changes have been 
made to the policy during the year. Full details are set out in 
note 2.1 on page 120.

The significant non-audit engagements related to VAT and 
corporate tax services, including tax advice. Significant 
engagements require the prior approval of the Chairman of 
the Committee.

The Committee has formally reviewed the work undertaken 
by KPMG for the Committee and elsewhere in the Company 
and is satisfied that the advice they have received has been 
objective and independent.

Reappointment
During the year the Committee considered the performance 
and audit fees of the external auditor, and the level of non-
audit work undertaken, and recommended to the Board that 
a resolution for the reappointment of KPMG for a further 
year as the Company’s auditor be proposed to shareholders 
at the AGM in May 2014. The resolution was passed and 
KPMG was reappointed for a further year.

The Committee has recommended the reappointment of 
KPMG at the AGM in May 2015.

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Dear Shareholder,
On the following pages we set out:
•	 our Annual Remuneration Report (pages 84 to 95) which 
will be subject to an advisory vote at our AGM in May 
2015; and 

•	 our Remuneration Policy table (pages 96 to 99) which was 
approved at the AGM in May 2014 for a three year period. 
The full Remuneration Policy is available on our website.

www.itvplc.com/about/governance

During 2013 and early 2014 we undertook an extensive 
review of our approach to remunerating Executive Directors, 
to ensure that our remuneration framework remained 
aligned with the strategy of the business as we move into 
our next phase of development. We believe that this tailored 
framework links closely to our strategy and key KPIs, which 
are set out in the Strategic Report.

As part of the review we consulted widely with our 
shareholders. We subsequently published our Remuneration 
Policy and proposed a new Long Term Incentive Plan (LTIP), 
both of which were approved by shareholders at the AGM 
in May 2014. We have reviewed the revised UK Corporate 
Governance Code (the Code) and are satisfied that our 
remuneration framework promotes long term interest and 
does not encourage undue risk taking.

Our performance in 2014
Led by the executive team we have again delivered a year 
of double digit growth, building on the significant progress 
we have made to rebalance and grow the business over the 
last few years. We have done this by having the right team in 
place focused on the key strategic priorities.

Remuneration outcomes in 2014
As explained above, due to another year of double digit 
growth the performance against financial targets other than 
share of viewing, has been exceptional. 

The bonus payout levels for the Executive Directors were 
94% for Adam Crozier and 95.2% for Ian Griffiths. Further 
details are set out on page 85. We have included additional 
disclosure of personal objectives for the 2014 bonus, but the 
Board continues to believe that targets remain commercially 
sensitive for a two year period following the relevant year 
end.

During the year, awards made under the Performance Share 
Plan (PSP) in 2012 reached the end of their performance 
period, and will become exercisable in March 2015. Details 
are set out on page 87. The Remuneration Committee 

Andy Haste
Chairman, Remuneration Committee

“ Led by the executive team we 
have again delivered a year of 
double digit growth, building on 
the significant progress we have 
made to rebalance and grow the 
business over the last few years. 
We have done this by having the 
right team in place focused on the 
key strategic priorities.”

 In this report . . . 

The purpose of this report is to set out for 
shareholders the principles and policy we apply to 
remuneration for our Executive Directors and to 
update you on how we have applied these for the 
financial year ended 31 December 2014. The report 
also aims to demonstrate how our Remuneration 
Policy is aligned to our strategy, supports the 
retention of the Executive Directors and rewards them 
for out- performance.

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Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

has not exercised any discretion during the year or felt it 
appropriate to call on malus provisions.

Remuneration Policy implementation 2015
Bonus targets and performance conditions for LTIP 
awards to be made in 2015 have been set in line with the 
Remuneration Policy and have been aligned closely with our 
strategy.  Details are set out on pages 91 and 92.

At the end of May 2014, following the AGM, we made the 
first awards under the LTIP to the Executive Directors. 
Details of the awards made and the relevant performance 
conditions are set out on page 89.

Malus and clawback
In order to take current best practice and the Code guidance 
into account, the Committee considered and has updated 
its position on malus and clawback. This now applies to the 
cash as well as the deferred element of the annual bonus 
and a clear time horizon is in place over which the provisions 
will operate. Further details are set out on page 92.

Advisers
During 2014 we took the decision to undertake a review of 
our Committee advisers. Deloitte have been advisers to the 
Committee for many years and the Committee believed a 
review would be good governance practice. As a result of 
this review, the Committee appointed FIT Remuneration 
Consultants as their advisers with effect from 28 November 
2014. FIT are signatories to the Code of Conduct of the 
Remuneration Consultants Group.

Shareholder views
Details of voting on remuneration resolutions at the Annual 
General Meeting in May 2014 are set out on page 90. We 

were pleased to receive strong investor support for our 
new Remuneration Policy and LTIP. While a number of 
shareholders voted against the Annual Remuneration 
Report, we understand that a primary concern was the 
number of changes we were making to the remuneration 
of the Executive Directors at the same time. We will 
ensure that due account is taken of this when considering 
any increases in remuneration levels and will speak to 
shareholders in advance of any proposed material changes 
to future remuneration arrangements. 

We seek to respond to shareholders’ expectations of 
remuneration reporting and would welcome feedback.

Andy Haste
Chairman, Remuneration Committee
4 March 2015

Who is on the Committee

The Committee is composed entirely of 
Non-executive Directors. The current members are:
•	 Andy Haste (Chairman)
•	 Peter Bazalgette (appointed on 1 June 2014)
•	 Archie Norman
•	 John Ormerod
Full details of attendance at Committee meetings can 
be found in the table on page 70.

Throughout this report we make reference to Strategic Priorities. For reference these are as detailed in the tables below.  

For awards made in 2015 

Target

1 Maximise audience and revenue from free-to-air and VOD business
2 Grow international content business
23

Build a global pay and distribution business

Further information on each  of the above is set out in the Strategic Report on pages 22 to 33.

For awards made up to and including 2014 

Target

Create a lean, creatively dynamic and fit-for-purpose organisation

1
2 Maximise audience and revenue share from our existing free-to-air broadcast business
3 Drive new revenue streams by exploiting our content across multiple platforms, free and pay
4

Build a strong international content business

Further information on each  of the above is set out in the 2013 Strategic Report available on our website  
www.itvplc.com/investors.

83

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceAnnual Remuneration Report continued

Our role
The role of the Committee is primarily to:
•	 review the ongoing appropriateness, relevance and 

effectiveness of the Remuneration Policy including in 
relation to retention and development;

•	 approve the Remuneration Policy and strategy for the 
Executive Directors, Management Board and other 
Senior Executives (together the Senior Executive 
Group) taking into account arrangements for the wider 
employee group. Details on employee remuneration 
can be found in the Directors’ Report on page 64;
•	 approve the design of the Company’s annual bonus 
arrangements and long-term incentive plans, 
including the performance targets that apply for the 
Senior Executive Group; and

•	 determine the award levels for the Senior Executive 
Group based on performance against annual bonus 
targets and long-term incentive conditions.

The Committee’s terms of reference can be accessed on 
our website.

www.itvplc.com/about/governance

How the Committee works
Principles considered when setting 
remuneration
The Company operates in the particularly competitive 
media market. We aim to balance the need to attract 
and retain high quality talent essential to the Company’s 
success with the need to be cost-effective and to reward 
exceptional performance. The Committee has developed 
a Remuneration Policy for the Company that balances 
these factors, while taking into account the prevailing best 
practice and a fair outcome for investors.

A significant proportion of the remuneration package is tied 
to the achievement of stretching performance conditions, 
which align remuneration with our strategy to deliver 
strong business performance and create shareholder value. 
Individuals should be rewarded for success and performance 
measured over clear timescales. The remuneration package 
is focused on rewarding sustained long term performance 
and aligning executives with the shareholder experience.

What we did in 2014
In addition to finalising the remuneration review described 
in the Chairman’s Governance Statement (which included 
extensive shareholder consultation), during 2014 our work 
was broadly in four areas:

84

Setting targets
•	 setting the business and personal performance targets 
for 2014 bonuses, aligned with the business plan for the 
year;

•	 setting the performance targets that would apply to 
awards made under the LTIP and PSP in 2014; and

•	 carrying out a preliminary review of annual bonus targets 

for 2015.

Reviewing outcomes
•	 reviewing the bonus outcomes and award levels for 2013 
and indicative 2014 outcomes ahead of final approval in 
2015; and

•	 approving the performance outcomes of the 2011 awards 

under the PSP.

Reward framework
•	 agreeing the base salaries for the Executive Directors as 

part of the remuneration review;

•	 agreeing the base salaries for the Senior Executive Group 
with effect from 1 January 2014, using the same process 
as applied to the wider employee population;
•	 agreeing the remuneration packages for new 

appointments to the Senior Executive Group and the 
arrangements for any leavers from this group; and
•	 finalising the new remuneration framework and LTIP.
Governance
•	 agreeing the Remuneration Report for 2013 prior to its 
approval by the Board, and approval by shareholders at 
the AGM in May 2014;

•	 conducting a formal process to review the independent 

external advisers to the Committee; and

•	 receiving and considering regular governance and 

regulatory updates.

Following each meeting the Committee communicates its 
main discussion points and findings to the Board.

An annual review of the performance of the Committee 
was conducted. In addition to feedback from members 
of the Committee input was also sought from the Chief 
Executive, Group HR Director and Deloitte. As a result it was 
agreed that the timing of Committee meetings would be 
more closely aligned with the reporting timetable of the 
Company. Overall the review concluded that the Committee 
is responding appropriately to its terms of reference and will 
continue to develop its role.

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Total remuneration for 2014
The sections of the Annual Remuneration Report that have been audited by KPMG are pages 85 to 89, and page 93 (from 
and including Directors’ Share Interests) to page 95.

Executive Directors
The table below sets out in a single figure the total remuneration for both Executive Directors for the financial year.

Salary

Taxable benefits

Bonus (cash 
and shares)

Share awards

Joining award

Pension

Total

Adam Crozier
Ian Griffiths

2014 
£000
900
550

2013 
£000
841
461
1,450 1,302

2014 
£000
19
14
33

2013 
£000

2014 
£000

2014 
£000

2013 
2013 
£000
£000
20 1,523 1,403 1,760 2,076
14
944 2,150
713
864
2,116 2,704 4,226
34 2,387

2014 
£000

2013 
£000
0 3,950
0
0
0 3,950

2014 
£000
225
138
363

2013 
2013 
2014 
£000
£000
£000
109 4,427 8,399
81 2,510 3,419
190 6,937 11,818

Share awards 2013 – in the 2013 Annual Report and Accounts part of the amount shown was the indicative vesting value of the 2011 PSP awards that were subject 
to performance conditions measured to 31 December 2013. Consistent with the regulations, the figures shown in the table above represent the subsequent value 
received on the vesting date of 10 March 2014 using the share price on that day (197.2p), an increase of £54,132 in total.

Share awards 2014 - the amount shown is the indicative value of the 2012 PSP awards that were subject to performance conditions measured to 31 December 
2014. The value was calculated using the average share price for the final quarter of 2014 (206.2p). See page 87 for further information.

Further information in relation to each of the elements of remuneration for 2014 set out in the table above is detailed below. An explanation for 2013 is set out in 
detail in our 2013 Annual Report and Accounts, which can be found on our website www.itvplc.com/investors.

Salary
Salaries are paid in line with our Remuneration Policy.

Taxable benefits
The benefits provided to the Executive Directors include the cost of private medical insurance and car-related benefits.

Bonus (cash and shares)
The bonus paid in respect of the financial year includes amounts that will be compulsorily deferred into shares for a three 
year period as set out below. 

Adam Crozier
Ian Griffiths

% of
maximum
bonus
opportunity
earned
94.0%
95.2%

Value
deferred into
shares under
the DSA 
£000
508
288

Value paid  
in cash
£000
1,015
576

Total value 
£000
1,523
864

Annual incentives are provided to Executive Directors through the bonus, with one-third of any award deferred into shares 
under the Deferred Share Award Plan (DSA). The performance conditions that apply to the bonus are set on an individual 
basis and are closely linked to the Company’s corporate, financial and strategic priorities. This enables the Committee 
to reward both annual financial performance delivered for shareholders, and performance against specific financial, 
operational or strategic objectives set for each Director, which are closely linked to the strategic priorities of the business.

When considering performance outcomes the Committee looks beyond formulaic results to ensure the outcomes align with 
overall business performance.

85

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceAnnual Remuneration Report continued

The majority of the bonus (60%) was based upon the achievement of corporate and financial targets. 

The remainder of the bonus (40%) was based upon the Committee’s assessment of the contribution the executive has 
made to the overall strategy through the delivery of specific targets. Both Executive Directors had a number of common 
objectives aligned to our strategic priorities and particularly relating to international expansion and repositioning of our 
digital channels.  

During the year, particular achievements, in addition to the delivery of the stretching business plan, related to the 
rebalancing of the business by reducing our dependence on UK advertising and driving new revenue streams. This was 
achieved particularly in our Online, Pay & Interactive business where revenue was up 30%. We invested in three digital 
content businesses and launched two new channels, ITVBe and our first pay channel, ITV Encore. We continued to grow our 
international production business both organically and by acquisition, with 24% growth in international production revenue 
and the completion of three acquisitions including Leftfield, our biggest to date.  

Adam Crozier was also assessed against the success of the relationship between ITV Studios and ITV Broadcast and there 
was an increase in ITV Studios’ share of ITV output to 60%.

Ian Griffiths was also assessed against the outcome of a comprehensive review of the London property portfolio to ensure 
that it remains fit for purpose over the coming decade and, in particular, the establishment of the London Television Centre 
pension funding partnership in March 2014. 

The Strategic Report sets out more detail of our achievements in the year.

The Committee ensured that the maximum bonus opportunity could only be achieved for significant out performance of 
all corporate, financial and individual targets, with on-target performance achieving a 60% payout of the maximum bonus 
opportunity.

The table below provides a summary of the performance measures, the level of performance achieved against the targets 
and the resulting level of payout. 

Performance measure
ITV plc EBITA (before exceptional items)
Profit to cash conversion
Cost savings
Individual targets

Performance achieved

Payout level

Weighting Adam Crozier
105.8%
108.44%
128.33%
85%

45%
10%
5%
40%

Ian Griffiths Adam Crozier
100%
100%
100%
85%

105.8%
108.44%
128.33%
88%

Ian Griffiths

Strategic 
Target
100% 1   2   3   4  
100% 1   2   3   4   
100%
1  
88% 1   2   3   4

The Board believes that the bonus performance targets are commercially sensitive information and will remain so until 
two years after the end of the financial year, while they are used in the business planning process for subsequent years. The 
targets will be disclosed once they are no longer commercially sensitive. 

86

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Share awards 
We are required to show share awards in the remuneration table on page 86 according to the year in which the performance 
period for each performance condition came to an end. 100% of the awards made in 2012 under the PSP were subject to 
performance conditions measured to 31 December 2014. 

The indicative value of these awards is set out below. 

Adam Crozier
Ian Griffiths

Number 
of  shares 
awarded 

1,137,904
610,396

Value at 
award date 
£
710,271
380,455

Number of 
shares 
vesting

Value at 
31 December
2014 
£
853,428 1,759,769
457,797
943,977

Change in 
share price
since award 
date
142.4%
142.4%

The vesting figures shown in the table above reflect 75% of the total award that met performance conditions on 31 December 2014 and will become 
exercisable on 28 March 2015. 

The share price used to value the shares at 31 December 2014 is the average share price for the final quarter of 2014 (206.2p).

When considering performance outcomes the Committee looks beyond formulaic results to ensure the outcomes align with 
overall business performance.

Details of the performance achieved for the 2012 PSP awards are below. A gateway condition of minimum cumulative 
adjusted EPS (26.15p) was met before any portion of the award could vest.

Performance measure

Cumulative adjusted EPS

Family SOV

Strategic 
Target

Weighting Targets

Performance 
achieved

Payout level 

1

2

50% 26.15p = 30% vesting

28.76p = 100% vesting
Vesting on a straight-line basis between

34.2p

100%

25% Maintain 2011 level = 50% vesting
+2% on 2011 level = 100% vesting
Vesting on a proportionate basis between

(5.09%)

0%

Total non-NAR growth

3   4

25% 5% growth pa = 30% vesting

10% growth pa = 100% vesting
Vesting on a straight-line basis between

12.94%

100%

Pension
Pension contributions represent a cash allowance in lieu of pension with a value of 25% of base salary for both Executive 
Directors. The cash allowance does not form part of the base salary for the purposes of determining incentives.

87

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceAnnual Remuneration Report continued

Non-executive Directors
The table below sets out in a single figure the total remuneration for Non-executive Directors for the financial year.

Peter Bazalgette
Mike Clasper
Roger Faxon
Mary Harris
Andy Haste
Lucy Neville-Rolfe
Archie Norman
John Ormerod

Notes 

1

2

3

4

5

Fees

Taxable Benefits

Total

2014
£000
65
–
62
27
112
37
500
87
890

2013
£000
35
96 
61
–
81
64
500
86
923

2014
£000
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

2013
£000
–
-
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

2014
£000
65
-
62
27
112
37
500
87
890

2013
£000
35
96
61
–
81
64
500
86
923

1.  Peter Bazalgette joined the Remuneration Committee on 1 June 2014.
2.  Mike Clasper stepped down from the Board on 31 December 2013. 
3.  Mary Harris was appointed to the Board on 28 July 2014.
4.  Andy Haste was appointed as SID on 1 January 2014.
5.  Lucy Neville-Rolfe stepped down from the Board on 17 July 2014.

LTIP awards made in 2014
The LTIP was approved by shareholders at the AGM in May 2014. On 30 May 2014 awards were made under the LTIP to both 
Executive Directors in the form of nil-cost options, subject to performance over the period to  
31 December 2016. 50% of any shares that vest can be exercised from the vesting date, the remaining 50% will be subject  
to a one-year holding period as follows:

Adam Crozier

Award date
30 May 2014

% Salary 
awarded
225

Number of 
options

Value at 
award date
1,103,543 £2,025,000

Performance 

period ends Vesting date 
30.05.17

31.12.16

Ian Griffiths

30 May 2014

225

674,387 £1,237,500

31.12.16

30.05.17

Release dates
50%–30.05.17
50%–30.05.18
50%–30.05.17
50%–30.05.18

The number of nil-cost options was calculated using the average share price over a three-day period prior to the award date (183.5p).

The length of holding periods will continue to be phased in over the next two years. For awards made in 2015, 50% of any 
shares that vest will be subject to a one year holding period, and 50% to a two year holding period. For awards made in 2016, 
100% of any shares that vest will be subject to a two year holding period. 

The Committee sets targets for the LTIP taking into account external forecasts, internal budgets, business priorities, and 
risks and uncertainties. Targets are set to be appropriately stretching in this context, with maximum performance set at a 
level which is considered to be the delivery of exceptional performance.

88

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

The awards made in 2014 are subject to performance measures and targets as set out below. Awards will be subject to an 
initial cumulative adjusted EPS performance gateway equal to that required for threshold performance (37.1p) before any 
portion of the award can vest.

Strategic 

Performance measure
Cumulative adjusted EPS
Family SOV
Total non-NAR growth
International Production revenue
Online, Pay & Interactive revenue

1

2

Target Weightings
50%
20%
10%
10%
10% 

3   4   
4

3

Threshold

Maximum

37.1p
23.05%
5% growth pa
5% growth pa
5% growth pa 

42.3p
23.51%
10% growth pa
15% growth pa 
18% growth pa

Threshold vesting for all targets is 20%. Vesting between threshold and maximum is on a straight-line basis.

When assessing performance against the Family SOV target, the Committee will also have regard to the health of the main  
ITV channel.

Payments to past Directors or for loss of office
No payments were made during the year.

Consideration of Directors’ remuneration
The Directors who were members of the Committee when matters relating to the Executive Directors’ remuneration for the 
year were considered are set out on page 83.

The Committee obtains advice from various sources in order to ensure it makes informed decisions. The Chief Executive 
and Group Finance Director are invited to attend Committee meetings as appropriate. No individual is involved in decisions 
relating to their own remuneration.

The Group HR Director is the main internal adviser and provides updates on remuneration, employee relations and human 
resource issues.

Deloitte acted as the independent adviser on remuneration policy and the external remuneration environment during 2014 
and provided advice on benchmarking, shareholder consultation and new long term incentive arrangements. Total fees for 
the advice provided to the Committee during the year amounted to £94,000. During the year Deloitte also provided the 
Group with advice on tax, corporate finance, and pensions matters, and acted on a consultancy basis to provide internal 
audit support under separate engagement terms.

The Committee has formally reviewed the work undertaken by Deloitte for the Committee and elsewhere in the Company 
and is satisfied that the advice they have received has been objective and independent.

Following a review Deloitte stepped down as adviser and FIT Remuneration Consultants were appointed from  
28 November 2014. FIT have any other connection with the Company.

89

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceAnnual Remuneration Report continued

Shareholder voting
At the AGM held on 15 May 2014, votes cast by proxy and at the meeting in respect of the Executive Directors’ remuneration 
were as follows:

Voting for

Voting against

Resolution
Remuneration Policy
Annual Remuneration Report
Long Term Incentive Plan

Number of 
shares 
2,272,594,109
2,029,807,767
2,530,024,205

%
96.04
77.48
95.11

Number of 
shares 
93,825,641
589,837,862
130,060,452

%

Total votes cast
3.96 2,366,419,750
2,619,645,629
22.52
2,660,084,657
4.89

Votes withheld
366,266,825
113,040,089
72,604,427

The Company recognises that a number of shareholders did not support the Annual Remuneration Report and understands 
that the main reason for this was the Company making increases to a number of remuneration elements (base salary, long-
term incentives and pension) in the same year.  Further information can be found in the Chairman’s letter on page 82.

Historic performance
The graph below shows the TSR performance of the Company against the FTSE 100 index over the six year period to 
31 December 2014. 

ITV                FTSE 100              

Source: Datastream

01/01/2009

01/01/2010

01/01/2011

01/01/2012

01/01/2013

01/01/2014

01/01/2015

700

600

500

400

300

200

100

0

)

9
0
0
2
y
r
a
u
n
a
J
1
t
a
0
0
1
o
t
d
e
s
a
b
e
R

(

R
S
T

Chief Executive remuneration
The table below provides a summary of the total remuneration received by the Chief Executive over the last six years, 
including details of the annual bonus payout and long term incentive award vesting level in each year.

2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2010
2009

Adam Crozier
Adam Crozier
Adam Crozier
Adam Crozier
Adam Crozier (for the 8 month period served)
John Cresswell (for the 4 month period served)
Michael Grade

Total 
remuneration
£000
4,427
8,399
2,915
2,158
1,350
661
2,583

Bonus % of
maximum  
94
93
91
88
95
83
94

Long-term
Incentive
award
vesting % of
maximum
75
87
12
–
–
–
–

The long term incentive award vesting percentage relates to the proportion of the award that met performance conditions in the relevant financial year.

90

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Governance 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Board of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

The table below provides details of the percentage change in the base salary, benefits and bonus of the Chief Executive 
between 31 December 2013 and 31 December 2014 compared to the average percentage change for other employees.

Chief Executive
All employees

Notes

1

2, 3

% change in
base salary
7.05
5.16

% change in
benefits
(2.37)
0.24

% change
in bonus
payment
8%
3.34%

1.  Benefits include the cost of medical insurance and car-related benefits. The level of benefits remains the same as for 2013. The percentage decrease in 

benefits received by the Chief Executive is due to a minor decrease in both the cost of private healthcare and car related costs.

2.  As the majority of employees are based in the UK, overseas employees have not been included.
3.  The percentage change in benefits is the average change for all employees (excluding the Chief Executive) with any of the same benefits as the Chief 

Executive. 

Spend on pay
The table below shows pay for all employees compared to other key financial indicators.

Employee pay
Ordinary dividend
Special dividend
Employee headcount 

Notes

1

2

2014 
£m
239
152
160
5,536

2013
£m
235
115
157 
5,480

% Change
1.6
32
2
0.01

1.  Employee pay is the total remuneration paid to all UK PAYE employees through the main UK payroll. This is shown on a different basis to last year’s report 

where employee pay consisted of base salary only.

2.  Employee headcount is the average number of  UK PAYE employees who were paid through the main UK payroll. 

Remuneration Policy in 2015
The following provides details of how the Remuneration Policy will be implemented in 2015.

Executive Directors
Salary
Executive Directors’ base salaries were increased with effect from 1 January 2015 as follows.

Adam Crozier
Ian Griffiths

1 January
2015 
£000
918
561

1 January
2014 
£000
900
550

% Change
2%
2%

In line with the Remuneration Policy, salary increases for Executive Directors followed those of the wider employee 
population.

Taxable benefits and pension
These will be provided in line with the Remuneration Policy.

Bonus (cash and shares)
Awards will continue to be made in line with the Remuneration Policy, with annual incentives paid to Executive Directors 
through the bonus with two thirds in cash, and one third deferred into shares under the DSA. The proposed performance 
measures for awards are detailed below and remain unchanged from 2014. The Board considers the actual targets for 2015 
to be commercially sensitive at this time.

Strategic

Performance measure
ITV plc EBITA (before exceptional items)
Profit to cash conversion
Cost savings
Individual targets

1   2   23
1   2   23
23

target Weightings
45%
10%
5%
40%

1   2   23

91

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceAnnual Remuneration Report continued

Share awards
Awards will continue to be made under the LTIP in line with the Remuneration Policy. The proposed performance measures 
and targets for awards to be made in 2015 are detailed below.  

Under the LTIP rules, the maximum annual award that can be granted in any financial year is 350% of salary. This is to allow 
the Committee flexibility when recruiting Executives and to ensure the longevity of the plan. There is currently no intention 
to grant awards at this level. Awards in 2015 will be made to the Executive Directors with a value of 225% of salary, at the 
same level as awarded in 2014 and in line with the operational maximum set out in our Remuneration Policy.

In order to ensure that Executive Directors are only rewarded if value is delivered to shareholders, awards will be subject to 
an initial cumulative adjusted EPS performance gateway equal to that required for threshold performance (45.7p). If this 
gateway is achieved, performance will then be assessed by reference to the conditions set out below.

Strategic

Performance measure
Cumulative adjusted EPS
Family SOV
Total Non-NAR
International Production revenue
Online, Pay & Interactive revenue

1   2   23
1

target Weightings
50%
20%
10%
10%
10%

1   2   23
2

1   23

Threshold
45.7p
22%
5% growth pa
5% growth pa 
5% growth pa

Maximum
52.2p
22.44%
10% growth pa
15% growth pa
18% growth pa

Threshold vesting for all targets is 20%. Vesting between threshold and maximum (100%) is on a straight-line basis.

Threshold for Family SOV is maintaining 2014 actual with 2% growth required for maximum payout. When assessing 
performance against this target, the Committee will also have regard to the health of the main ITV channel.

Holding periods for any shares that vest are being phased in so that for awards made in 2015, 50% will be subject to a one-
year holding period, and 50% to a two year holding period. Increased share retention requirements under the shareholding 
guidelines were introduced in 2013 and further information can be found on page 93.

Malus and Clawback
In order to take account of current best practice and the guidance in the Code, the Committee has decided to update the 
provisions on malus and clawback so that:
•	 it applies to the cash as well as the deferred element of the annual bonus; and
•	 a clear time horizon is in place over which the provisions will operate.
Malus and clawback provisions may be operated at the discretion of the Committee in respect of any cash and deferred 
share elements of the bonus and awards made under LTIPs that were granted following the introduction/amendment of 
these clauses. Under malus, unvested share awards (including any LTIP shares subject to a post vesting holding period) can be 
reduced (down to zero if considered appropriate) or be made subject to additional conditions. Clawback allows for repayment 
of bonuses previously paid and/or shares previously received following vesting. Malus/clawback can be operated up to four years 
following the start of the relevant bonus year for bonuses, and up to six years from the relevant date of grant for LTIP awards. 
The circumstances in which the operation of these provisions may be considered include material misstatement of results, 
gross misconduct or fraud.  

92

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Non-executive Directors
Non-executive Director fees were increased with effect from 1 January 2015 as set out below.

Chairman (all-inclusive fee)
Board fee
Additional fees for:
Senior Independent Director
Audit Committee Chairman
Audit Committee member
Remuneration Committee Chairman
Remuneration Committee member

1 January
2015 
£000
500,000
63,468

1 January
2014
£000
500,000
62,224

% Change
–
2%

25,000
20,000
5,240
20,000
5,240

25,000 
20,000
5,137
20,000
5,137

–
–
2%
–
2%

Details of Committee membership can be found in the Governance section on page 70.

Directors’ share interests
Shareholding guidelines
The Committee continues to recognise the importance of Executive Directors being shareholders so as to align their 
interests with other shareholders. Shareholding guidelines are in place, which encourage Executive Directors to build up a 
holding of ITV plc shares based on a percentage of base salary. 50% of the requirement must be obtained within three years 
of appointment and the remainder within five years.

Adam Crozier
Ian Griffiths

% of salary required
under shareholding
guidelines
400
200

% of salary held at 
31 December 2014
558
709

Other members of the Management Board are required to hold between 50% and 100% of their salary in shares.

Interests in shares
The figures set out below represent shareholdings in the ordinary share capital of ITV plc beneficially owned by Directors and 
their family interests at 31 December 2014.

Peter Bazalgette
Adam Crozier
Roger Faxon
Ian Griffiths
Mary Harris (appointed 28 July 2014)
Andy Haste
Archie Norman
John Ormerod

31 December
2014
8,657

31 December
2013
1,249
1,699,910 1,633,488
4,953
1,511,922
–
87,085
1,221,432
134,627

11,145
1,511,922
1,841
99,431
1,297,498
145,471

There were no changes in Directors’ interests in shares between the end of the financial year and 4 March 2015.

93

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceAnnual Remuneration Report continued

Executive Directors’ non-executive directorships
With specific approval of the Board, Executive Directors may accept external appointments as non-executive directors of 
other companies and retain any related fees paid to them.

During the year the Executive Directors retained fees for the directorships set out below.

Adam Crozier
Ian Griffiths (appointed 23 June 2014)

Company
G4S plc
D S Smith plc

2014 
£000
58
28

Service contracts and loss of office
Executive Directors
Executive Directors have rolling service contracts that provide for 12 months notice on either side. There are no special 
provisions that apply in the event of a change of control.

Adam Crozier
Ian Griffiths

Date of Appointment
26 April 2010
9 September 2008

Nature of contract
Rolling
Rolling

Notice period from
Company
12 months
12 months

Notice period from
Director
12 months
12 months

Compensation provisions
for early termination
None
None

A payment in lieu of notice, including base salary, contractual benefits and contractual provision for an income in retirement, 
may be made if:
•	 the Company terminates the employment of the Executive Director with immediate effect, or without due notice; or
•	 termination is agreed by mutual consent.
The Company may also make a payment in respect of outplacement costs, legal fees and the cost of any settlement 
agreement where appropriate.

With the exception of termination for cause or resignation, Executive Directors will be eligible for a bonus award prorated 
to reflect the proportion of the financial year for which they were employed and subject to performance achieved, provided 
they have a minimum of three months service in the bonus year.

Non-executive Directors
Each Non-executive Director, including the Chairman, has a contract of service with the Company. Non-executive Directors 
will serve for an initial term of three years, subject to election and annual re-election by shareholders, unless otherwise 
terminated earlier by and at the discretion of either party upon one month’s written notice (12 months for the current 
Chairman). After the initial three year term reappointment is on an annual basis.

The Directors’ service contracts and letters of appointment are available for inspection at the Company’s registered office. 

94

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Outstanding interests under share schemes
The following tables provide details of Directors’ interests in outstanding share awards.

At 
1 January
2014

Awarded 
in year

Vested 
in year

Exercised
in year

Lapsed in
year

At 31 
December
2014

Share
price used
for award
(pence)

Share price
at date of
vesting
(pence)

Date of
release/
exercise in
year

Notes

a, 4

Adam Crozier
DSA
28 March 2014
28 March 2013
28 March 2012
28 March 2012
08 March 2011
08 March 2011
LTIP
30 May 2014
PSP
1 March 2013
1 March 2012
28 March 2012
8 March 2011
8 March 2011

a 346,228
477,112
a
b 238,557
a
276,314
b 276,314

– 240,534
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
276,314 276,314
276,314 276,314

– 240,534
– 346,228
–
477,112
– 238,557
–
–
–
–

194.5
129.5
88.6
88.6
91.4
91.4

197.2
197.2

10.3.14
10.3.14

– 1,103,543

–

–

– 1,103,543

183.5

c 624,647
c, 5 899,347
d, 5 238,557
c, 6 786,196
d, 6 276,314

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
– 778,806 778,806
273,717
–

273,717

– 624,647
– 899,347
– 238,557
–
–

7,390
3,597

–
a, 4
a
175,891
a 234,406
b
117,204
a 203,478
b 203,478

–
–
122,269
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
– 203,478 203,478
– 203,478 203,478

Ian Griffiths
DSA
28 March 2014
28 March 2013
28 March 2012
28 March 2012
08 March 2011
08 March 2011
LTIP
30 May 2014
PSP
1 March 2013
1 March 2012
28 March 2012
8 March 2011
8 March 2011
1.  No awards are outstanding that have vested but not been exercised.
2.  There are no performance conditions attaching to the DSA. 
3.  Performance conditions that apply to the outstanding awards under the PSP and LTIP are set out in the table below.

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
– 427,088 427,088
– 201,566 201,566

– 342,549
– 493,192
–
117,204
4,052
–
1,912
–

– 122,269
– 175,891
– 234,406
–
117,204
–
–
–
–

a 342,549
493,192
a, 5
117,204
b, 5
a, 6
431,140
b, 6 203,478

– 674,387

– 674,387

–

–

–

121.1
81.8
88.6
91.4
91.4

194.5
129.5
88.6
88.6
91.4
91.4

183.5

121.1
81.8
88.6
91.4
91.4

197.2
197.2

10.3.14
10.3.14

197.2
197.2

10.3.14
10.3.14

197.2
197.2

10.3.14
10.3.14

Strategic Target

Gateway

Cumulative adjusted EPS

Family SOV

Annual non-NAR growth

International Production revenue

Online, Pay and Interactive Revenue

Weighting

Threshold 
Vesting

26.15p

30%

50%

25%

25%

50%

30%

1
1

2
3 4
4
3

30.4p

26.15p
Maintain 
at 2011 
levels  
(platform 
adjusted)

5%

2012 PSP

2013 PSP

                                            2014 LTIP

Threshold Maximum

Threshold Maximum

Weightings

Threshold
Vesting 

Threshold Maximum

37.1p

28.76p

30.4p

33.4p

50%

20%

37.1p

42.3p

+2%

10%

23%

5%

+2%

10%

Cumulative adjusted EPS 
years 2012 to 2014

Cumulative adjusted EPS  
years 2013 to 2015

20%

10%

10%

10%

20%

20%

20%

20%

23.05%

23.51%

5%

5%

10%

15%

5%

18%
Cumulative adjusted EPS 
years 2014 to 2016

4.  DSA awards made in 2014 for 2013 performance are included in the Bonus (cash and shares) column for 2013 in the remuneration table on page 85.
5.  PSP performance conditions were met in 2014 (75%) and will become exercisable on 28 March 2015.  The indicative value at 31 December 2014 is included in 

Vesting between threshold and maximum (100%) on a straight-line basis for all targets apart from SOV, which is  
measured on a proportionate basis for 2012 and 2013 PSP awards

the remuneration table on page 85 and is described on page 87.

6.  PSP performance conditions were met in 2013 (99.06%) and the value is included in the remuneration table on page 85. 

a – Compulsory deferral, b – Voluntary deferral, c – Core Award, d – Matching Award

95

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceRemuneration Policy

The Company’s policy on remuneration for Executive and Non-executive Directors was approved by shareholders at the AGM 
on 14 May 2014 for a 3-year period. The full policy can be found on our website:

www.itvplc.com/governance

The table below contains the principal elements of the remuneration packages for the Executive Directors.

Fixed 
elements

Purpose and  
link to strategy

Operation

Maximum potential payment

Performance metrics

Base
salary

Reflects the 
individual’s skills, 
responsibilities and 
experience.

Supports the 
recruitment and 
retention of Executive 
Directors of the 
calibre required to 
deliver the business 
strategy within the 
competitive media 
market.

Provision 
for an 
income in 
retirement

Benefits

To provide 
competitive post-
retirement benefits 
or cash allowance as a 
framework to save for 
retirement.

Supports the 
recruitment and 
retention of Executive 
Directors of the calibre 
required to deliver 
the business strategy 
within the competitive 
media market.

Ensures the 
overall package is 
competitive and 
provides financial 
protection for 
employees and their 
families.

Reviewed annually and paid 
monthly in cash. 

performance.

Consideration is typically given 
to a range of factors when 
determining salary levels, 
including:
•	 Personal and Company-wide 
•	 Typical pay levels in relevant 
markets for each Executive 
whilst recognising the need 
for an appropriate premium 
to attract and retain superior 
talent, balanced against 
the need to provide a cost-
effective overall remuneration 
package.

•	 The wider employee pay 

review.

Executives can choose to 
participate in the ITV defined 
contribution scheme, receive 
a cash allowance or receive 
payments into a personal 
pension or a combination thereof.

Contributions are set as a 
percentage of base salary.

Post-retirement benefits do not 
form part of the base salary for 
the purposes of determining 
incentives.

The Company provides a range 
of market competitive benefits 
including travel-related benefits, 
private medical insurance and 
other insurance benefits.

Additional benefits may 
also be provided in certain 
circumstances, if required for 
business need. For example 
(but not limited to), relocation 
expenses, housing allowance and 
education support.

96

None, although 
overall individual 
and business 
performance 
is considered 
when setting and 
reviewing salaries.

There is no maximum salary 
increase. However, ordinarily 
salary increases will be in line 
with the average increase 
awarded to other employees 
in the Company.

Increases may be made 
above this level to take 
account of individual 
circumstances, which may 
include:
•	 Increase in size or scope of 
the role or responsibility.
•	 Increase to reflect the 

individual’s development 
and performance in role.

The maximum contributions 
or cash allowances for the 
Executive Directors are 25% 
of base salary.

None

None

Set at a level which the 
Committee considers to be 
appropriately positioned 
taking into account 
typical market levels for 
comparable roles, individual 
circumstances and the 
overall cost to the business. 

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Variable 
elements

Purpose and  
link to strategy

Operation

Maximum potential payment

Performance metrics

Performance measures 
and targets are set by 
the Committee each 
year based on corporate 
objectives closely 
linked to the strategic 
priorities and individual 
contributions.

The majority of the 
bonus opportunity 
will be based on the 
corporate and financial 
measures.

The remainder of the 
bonus will be based on 
performance against 
individual objectives.

Up to 20% of the 
maximum opportunity 
will be received for 
threshold performance.

The maximum bonus 
opportunity for any 
Executive Director will not 
exceed 200% of salary.

The current bonus 
opportunities are 180% 
of salary for Adam Crozier 
and 165% of salary for Ian 
Griffiths.

Increases above the 
current opportunities, up 
to the maximum limit, 
may be made to take 
account of individual 
circumstances, which may 
include:
•	 Increase in size or 
scope of the role or 
responsibility.
•	 Increase to reflect 
the individual’s 
development and 
performance in their 
role.

Annual 
Bonus 
Scheme 
(Bonus) 
and 
Deferred 
Share 
Award 
Plan 
(DSA)

Incentivises 
Executives and 
colleagues to 
achieve key strategic 
outcomes on an 
annual basis.

Focus on key 
financial metrics and 
objectives to deliver 
the business strategy.

The element 
compulsorily 
deferred into shares 
rewards delivery 
of sustained long-
term performance, 
provides alignment 
with the shareholder 
experience and 
supports the 
retention of 
executives.

Measures and targets are set 
annually based on business 
plans at the start of the 
financial year and pay-out 
levels are determined by 
the Committee following 
the year-end based on 
performance against 
objectives.

Paid once the results have 
been audited. Annual bonus 
calculations that are based 
on the financial results for 
the year are audited by 
Internal Audit and reviewed 
by the Audit Committee 
before consideration by the 
Committee.

The Committee has the 
discretion to amend the bonus 
pay-out should any formulaic 
assessment of performance 
not reflect a balanced view of 
overall business performance 
for the year.

Two-thirds of the bonus is 
delivered in cash and one-
third is deferred into shares 
under the DSA for a period of 
three years. 

During the deferral period 
share awards may be 
reduced or cancelled in 
certain circumstances. 
Further detail is provided on 
our website www.itvplc.com/
governance.

Dividends are paid to 
participants on the deferred 
shares during the deferral 
period.

97

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernanceRemuneration Policy continued

Variable 
elements

Purpose and  
link to strategy

Operation

Maximum potential payment

Performance metrics

New LTIP

Incentivises 
Executives to deliver 
performance which 
is aligned to the 
business strategy 
over the longer term 
and the creation of 
shareholder value.

Acts as a retention 
tool to retain the 
Executives required 
to deliver the 
business strategy. 

Our current operational 
policy is to make awards 
of 225% of salary each 
year. 

Under the new LTIP rules, 
the maximum annual 
award that may be 
granted in any financial 
year is 350% of salary. 

The Committee would 
consult with shareholders 
if it was considering 
increasing awards above 
the current operational 
policy.

Awards are made annually 
with vesting dependent on 
business performance during 
the performance period. The 
performance period will be 
three years, other than in 
exceptional circumstances. 

The Committee has 
discretion to amend the 
final vesting level should 
any formulaic assessment 
of performance not reflect 
a balanced view of the 
business performance during 
the performance period.

Awards will be required to be 
held for an additional period 
of two years after the end of 
the performance period. This 
is called the holding period 
and will be  phased in during 
2014 and 2015.

Dividends are earned on 
deferred shares during the 
holding period.

During the holding period 
awards may be reduced 
or cancelled in certain 
circumstances. Further detail 
is provided on our website 
www.itvplc.com/governance.

Performance is 
measured against 
corporate targets closely 
linked to the Company’s 
financial and strategic 
priorities.

Performance metrics 
are:
•	 Adjusted EPS
•	 Non-NAR and its 
components

•	 Viewing performance
LTIP awards will vest 
based on financial 
performance. 

A gateway condition 
must be achieved before 
any portion of the award 
vests. 

Each performance 
metric will operate 
independently.

The performance range 
will be determined 
for each metric. The 
proportion of each 
element of the award 
that will vest for 
threshold performance 
against a metric will be 
20%.

SAYE

Provides all 
employees, including 
Executive Directors, 
the opportunity to 
voluntarily invest in 
Company shares. 

Executive Directors are 
entitled to participate in the 
plan on the same basis as 
other employees.

Participation limits are as 
per the rules of the plan 
and in accordance with 
HMRC limits.

None

The table below summarises the main elements of remuneration for Non-executive Directors:

98

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014GovernanceBoard of Directors
Management Board
Directors’ Report and Responsibilities
Chairman’s Governance Statement
Corporate Governance
Audit Committee Report
Annual Remuneration Report
Remuneration Policy

Component

Chairman fees

Non-executive fees

Approach of the Company

The Committee determines the fees of the Chairman and sets the fees at a level that is 
considered to be appropriate, taking into account the size and complexity of the business 
and the expected time commitment and contribution of the role.

The fee is a fixed annual fee of which 25% (40% for the current Chairman), after statutory 
deductions, is used to acquire shares in the Company. The shares are purchased quarterly 
and held by a nominee until retirement from the Board.

The Board determines the fees of the Non-executive Directors and sets the fees at a level 
that is considered to be appropriate, taking into account the size and complexity of the 
business and the expected time commitment and contribution of the role.

Fees are structured as a basic fee with additional fees payable for membership and/or 
chairmanship of a committee or other additional responsibilities.

The Non-executive Directors are required to use 25% of their annual fees, after statutory 
deductions, to acquire shares in the Company. The shares are purchased quarterly and held 
by a nominee on their behalf until they retire from the Board. 

Benefits

Additional benefits may also be provided in certain circumstances, if required for business 
purposes.

99

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVGovernancePictured: 
Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway was back for its 11th 
series in 2014, averaging 7.6 million viewers across the 
series, a 30% share. A version of the show, produced by ITV 
Studios America, has been commissioned by NBC in the 
US for later in 2015.

100

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Financial 
Statements

Independent Auditor’s Report

Introduction and Table of Contents

Primary Statements

ITV plc Company Financial Statements

102

106

107

161

101

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report to the 
Members of ITV plc Only

Opinions and conclusions arising from our audit
1 Our opinion on the financial statements is unmodified 
We have audited the financial statements of ITV plc for the year ended 31 December 2014 set out on pages 107 to 165. In 
our opinion: 
•	 the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and of the parent company’s affairs as at  

31 December 2014 and of the Group’s profit for the year then ended; 

•	 the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting 

Standards as adopted by the European Union; 

•	 the parent company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with UK Accounting Standards; and 
•	 the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and, as 

regards the Group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation. 

2 Our assessment of risks of material misstatement
In arriving at our audit opinion above on the financial statements the risks of material misstatement that had the 
greatest effect on our audit were as follows: 

The Audit Committee’s consideration of these significant risks is set out in the Audit Committee Report on page 75. 

Our response

The risk
Revenue recognition and contractual arrangements (see note 2.1)
The Group’s revenue consists primarily of advertising, programme production and programme rights. 
Net Advertising Revenue (NAR) (£1,629 million)
The majority of ITV’s advertising revenue (NAR) is subject to 
regulation under Ofcom’s Contract Rights Renewal system 
(CRR). CRR works by ensuring that the annual share of 
television advertising that will be placed with ITV by each 
advertising agency can change in relation to the viewing 
figures for commercial television that it delivers. The CRR 
system, the pricing of the annual contractual arrangements 
with advertising agencies and the details of each advertising 
campaign, together with the related processes and controls, 
are complex and involve estimation. 

Our audit procedures included: 
•	 Testing of controls, assisted by our own IT specialists, 

including those over: input of individual campaigns’ terms 
and pricing; comparison of those terms and pricing data 
against the related overarching contracts with advertising 
agencies; linkage to transmission/viewer data; and 
segregation of duties; 

•	 Testing management’s review controls over: contract 

approval; periodic deal reconciliations; and the deal debt 
adjustment; 

•	 Analysis of revenue based on our industry knowledge and 

external market data, following up variances; and 

•	 Challenging the year-end deal debt adjustment based on 
comparison with customers’ correspondence and agreed 
terms of business. 

•	 We also assessed the adequacy of the group’s disclosures 

in respect of the accounting policies on revenue 
recognition set out in note 2.1.

In particular, the pricing mechanism means it is possible for a 
difference to arise between the price received by ITV for an 
advertising campaign and the value it delivered, mainly as a 
result of the actual viewing figures being different from the 
agreed level. Where the Group has over-delivered viewers 
this is referred to as a ‘deal credit’, or a ‘deal debt’ where 
delivery has fallen short. Rather than the price paid for that 
campaign being adjusted, these differences are noted for 
each agency and then taken account of when agreeing either 
future campaigns or the annual contract. A net deal debt 
position with an agency is recorded in ITV’s accounts, as a 
liability. Net deal credit positions are not recognised.

NAR is therefore considered a significant risk due to:
•	 The number and complexity of contractual agreements 

with advertising agencies;

•	 The complexity of the systems and processes of control 

used to record revenue; and,

•	 The level of estimation involved in determining the deal 

debt	liability	at	the	period	end.  	  

102

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

The risk
Other revenue streams (Non-NAR revenue) (£961 million)
Non-NAR revenue includes revenue from: programme 
production; the sale of programme rights, transmission 
supply arrangements;  and the Online, Pay & Interactive 
division within the Broadcast segment.

Our response
Our audit procedures included testing of controls over the 
timing of revenue recognition, and the accounting for new 
contractual arrangements. We considered the revenue 
policies against the relevant accounting standards. 
For the larger contracts entered into during the year, and 
for a statistical sample of all contracts, we tested whether 
revenue had been recognised in accordance with the 
contractual terms, given the requirements of the relevant 
accounting standard.

Recognition of non-NAR revenue is driven by the specific 
terms of the related contracts. It is considered to be a risk as 
the contracts can be complex and the terms are varied, with 
the result that accounting for the revenue generated in any 
given period can require individual consideration. 
Acquisition of Leftfield Entertainment (initial consideration £214 million and goodwill arising £139 million  
(see notes 3.3 and 3.4)
During the year, ITV acquired 80% of Leftfield 
Entertainment. Acquisition accounting is considered a 
significant risk as a result of the following factors: 

Our audit procedures included:

The Group is required to make a number of judgements, 
which focus on, but are not limited to: assessment 
of whether the performance related consideration 
arrangements are acquisition consideration or post-
acquisition remuneration, and identification of intangible 
assets acquired. 

In determining the fair value of the acquired intangible 
assets and the contingent consideration and remuneration 
payable, medium term cash flow forecasts have been 
prepared by ITV. The inherent uncertainty involved in 
forecasting future cash flows and the judgement involved in 
the selection of the appropriate discount rate makes this a 
key area of focus. 

ITV is also required to exercise judgement in allocating, for 
the purpose of annual impairment testing, the goodwill 
arising to the cash generating units expected to benefit 
from the acquisition. 

Inspecting the terms of the acquisition contracts to 
determine our view of the appropriate accounting 
treatment of performance related consideration 
arrangements against the criteria of the relevant 
accounting standards.

Using our own valuation specialists to assist us in: critically 
assessing both the appropriateness of the identified 
intangibles, against the criteria of the relevant accounting 
standards, and the appropriateness of the discount rates; 
and comparing the inputs used in determining the discount 
rate to externally derived data.

Testing the principles and integrity of the Group’s cash 
flow model. We compared the Group’s forecast revenue 
growth and margins assumptions to externally derived 
data as well as our own assessments in relation to 
key inputs, such as the likelihood of both shows being 
recommissioned and new commissions.

Critically assessing the Group’s determination of cash-
generating units expected to benefit from the acquisition 
against the criteria in the relevant accounting standards. 
We inspected Board minutes and monthly internal 
reporting to corroborate the Group’s assessment of the 
separability of cash flows and assets.

We also considered the adequacy of the Group’s 
disclosures in respect of the acquisition and the related 
judgements in note 3.4.

103

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report to the 
Members of ITV plc Only continued

The risk
Defined benefit pension schemes (£346 million, see note 3.7)
Significant estimates are made in valuing the Group’s post-
retirement defined benefit schemes.

Our response

The key valuation assumptions are set out in note 3.7 in the 
‘Assumptions’ section. When making these assumptions the 
Group takes independent actuarial advice relating to their 
appropriateness.

The valuation is considered to be a significant risk as, given 
the quantum of the scheme assets and scheme liabilities, 
small changes in the assumptions can have a material 
financial impact on the Group.

Royalty accruals (£70 million, see note 3.1.5)
The Group pays royalties directly to artists / producers 
for all content used. The contractual terms of these 
agreements are varied and complex. 

The related IT systems can only address part of the 
processing, necessitating a significant manual element 
in calculating royalty accruals recorded by the Group. 
Overall the process is complex, though core to the Group’s 
operations. 

The volume and variety of contracts being interpreted and 
accounted for combined with the manual nature of the 
process increases the risk of error. 

In this area our audit procedures included challenging 
the key assumptions applied in determining the Group’s 
net deficit, being the discount rate, inflation rate and 
mortality/life expectancy, with the support of our own 
actuarial specialists. This included a comparison of these 
key assumptions against externally derived data. 

We obtained third party confirmation of the pension 
schemes assets as at 31 December 2014.

We also considered the adequacy of the Group’s 
disclosures in respect of the sensitivity of the deficits  
to these assumptions in note 3.7.

Among other procedures, we tested controls over the 
recording of royalty costs and the approval of royalty 
payments. 

We also reperformed a sample of the Group’s annual 
royalty calculations, agreeing key inputs to contracts and 
the underlying system data. 

In addition, we performed analytical procedures 
comparing royalty costs as a percentage of the related 
income streams to budgets and prior periods, taking 
account of any known changes. 

3 Our application of materiality and an overview of the scope of our audit
The materiality for the Group financial statements as a whole was set at £25 million, determined with reference to a 
benchmark of Group profit before tax, of which it represents 4.1%. 

We report to the Audit Committee any corrected or uncorrected identified misstatements exceeding £1 million, in 
addition to other identified misstatements that warranted reporting on qualitative grounds. 

The Group’s principal operations are in the United Kingdom and represent over 90% of Group revenue, 97% Group profit 
before tax and 94% of Group total assets. Only the UK operations are scoped in for Group audit purposes. The Group 
audit team performed the audit of the UK operations as if they were a single aggregated set of financial information 
using materiality of £23 million. 

Although not in scope for Group reporting purposes, in agreement with the Audit Committee, specified audit procedures 
were also performed on two entities in the US by component auditors simultaneously with the audit of the Group and UK 
operations. Together the above audit and these specified audit procedures covered 96% of total Group revenue, 99% of 
Group profit before taxation; and 99% of total Group assets. 

4 Our opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006 is unmodified
In our opinion: 
•	 the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the 

Companies Act 2006; and 

•	 the information given in the Strategic Report and the Directors’ Report for the financial year for which the financial 

statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements. 

104

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

5 We have nothing to report in respect of the matters on which we are required to report by exception 
Under ISAs (UK and Ireland) we are required to report to you if, based on the knowledge we acquired during our audit, 
we have identified other information in the Annual Report that contains a material inconsistency with either that 
knowledge or the financial statements, a material misstatement of fact, or that is otherwise misleading. 

In particular, we are required to report to you if: 
•	 we have identified material inconsistencies between the knowledge we acquired during our audit and the Directors’ 
statement that they consider that the annual report and financial statements taken as a whole is fair, balanced and 
understandable and provides the information necessary for shareholders to assess the Group’s performance, business 
model and strategy; or

•	 the Audit Committee Report does not appropriately address matters communicated by us to the Audit Committee.
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion: 
•	 adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been 

received from branches not visited by us; or 

•	 the parent company financial statements and the part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report to be audited are not in 

agreement with the accounting records and returns; or 

•	 certain disclosures of Directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or 
•	 we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. 
•	 Under the Listing Rules we are required to review: 
•	 the Directors’ statement, set out on page 66, in relation to going concern; and 
•	 the part of the Corporate Governance Statement on pages 68 to 74 relating to the Company’s compliance with the ten 

provisions of the 2012 UK Corporate Governance Code specified for our review. 

We have nothing to report in respect of the above responsibilities.

Scope and responsibilities
As explained more fully in the Directors’ Responsibilities Statement set out on page 66, the Directors are  
responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and  
fair view. A description of the scope of an audit of financial statements is provided on the Financial Reporting Council’s 
website at www.frc.org.uk/auditscopeukprivate. This report is made solely to the Company’s members as a body  
and is subject to important explanations and disclaimers regarding our responsibilities, published on our website at  
www.kpmg.com/uk/auditscopeukco2014a, which are incorporated into this report as if set out in full and should be read 
to provide an understanding of the purpose of this report, the work we have undertaken and the basis of our opinions.  

Mark Summerfield (Senior Statutory Auditor)   
for and on behalf of KPMG LLP, Statutory Auditor   
Chartered Accountants   
15 Canada Square 
London  
E14 5GL   
4 March 2015

105

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsIntroduction and Table of Contents

 In this section . . . 

The financial statements have been presented in a style which attempts to make them less complex and more relevant 
to shareholders. We have grouped the note disclosures into five sections: ‘Basis of Preparation’, ‘Results for the Year’, 
‘Operating Assets and Liabilities’, ‘Capital Structure and Financing Costs’ and ‘Other Notes’. Each section sets out the 
accounting policies applied in producing the relevant notes, along with details of any key judgements and estimates 
used. The purpose of this format is to provide readers with a clearer understanding of what drives financial performance 
of the Group. The aim of the text in boxes is to provide commentary on each section, or note, in plain English.

 Keeping it simple . . . 

Notes to the financial statements provide information required by statute, accounting standards or Listing Rules  
to explain a particular feature of the financial statements. The notes which follow will also provide explanations  
and additional disclosure to assist readers’ understanding and interpretation of the Annual Report and the  
financial statements.

Profit before tax
Exceptional items
Taxation
Earnings per share

Working capital
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Acquisitions
Investments
Provisions
Pensions

Primary Statements
Consolidated Income Statement
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
Section 1: Basis of Preparation
Section 2: Results for the Year
2.1 
2.2  
2.3  
2.4  
Section 3: Operating Assets and Liabilities
3.1  
3.2  
3.3  
3.4  
3.5  
3.6  
3.7  
Section 4: Capital Structure and Financing Costs
4.1  
4.2  
4.3  
4.4  
4.5  
4.6 
4.7  
Section 5: Other Notes
Related party transactions
5.1  
Contingent liabilities
5.2  
5.3  
Subsidiaries exempt from audit
ITV plc Company Financial Statements
Notes to the ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Net cash
Borrowings and finance leases
Managing market risks: derivative financial instruments
Net financing costs
Fair value hierarchy
Equity
Share-based compensation

Page

107
108
109
110
112
113
117
117
121
122
124
126
126
129
131
136
139
140
140
146
146
148
150
153
154
155
156
159
159
159
160
161
162

Contents

106

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsConsolidated Income  
Statement

For the year ended 31 December
Revenue 
Operating costs
Operating profit

  Presented as:
  Earnings before interest, tax, amortisation (EBITA) before exceptional items
  Operating exceptional items
  Amortisation of intangible assets
  Operating profit

  Financing income
  Financing costs
Net financing costs
Share of losses of joint ventures and associated undertakings
Gain on sale of non-current assets (exceptional items)
Gain on sale  of subsidiaries and investments (exceptional items)
Profit before tax
Taxation 
Profit for the year

Profit attributable to:
Owners of the Company
Non-controlling interests
Profit for the year

Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Note
2.1

2.1
2.2
3.3

4.4
4.4
4.4
2.1
2.2
2.2

2.3

 2014
£m
2,590
(1,939)
651

2013
£m
2,389
(1,843)
546

730
(12)
(67)
651

22
(73)
(51)
–
4
1
605
(132)
473

466
7
473

620
(8)
(66)
546

10
(125)
(115)
(2)
–
6
435
(105)
330

326
4
330

2.4
2.4

11.6p
11.5p

8.3p
8.1p

107

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsConsolidated Statement  
of Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 31 December

Profit for the year

Other comprehensive income:
Items that are or may be reclassified to profit or loss
Revaluation of available for sale financial assets
Net loss on cash flow hedges
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations
Items that will never be reclassified to profit or loss
Remeasurement gains on defined benefit pension schemes
Income tax charge on items that will never be reclassified
Other comprehensive income/(cost) for the year, net of income tax
Total comprehensive income for the year

Total comprehensive income attributable to:

Owners of the Company
Non-controlling interests
Total comprehensive income for the year

Note

4.6.4
4.3/ 4.6.3
4.6.3

3.7
2.3

2014
£m
473

3
(4)
22

24
(3)
21
515

508
7
515

2013
£m
330

(3)
–
(6)

48
(13)
26
356

352
4
356

108

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Consolidated Statement  
of Financial Position

As at 31 December
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Investments in joint ventures, associates and equity investments
Derivative financial instruments
Distribution rights
Net deferred tax asset

Current assets
Programme rights and other inventory
  Trade and other receivables due within one year
  Trade and other receivables due after more than one year 
Trade and other receivables
Derivative financial instruments
Cash and cash equivalents

Current liabilities
Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments
  Trade and other payables due within one year
  Trade payables due after more than one year
Trade and other payables
Current tax liabilities
Provisions

Net current assets

Non-current liabilities
Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments
Defined benefit pension deficit
Other payables
Provisions

Net assets

Note

3.2
3.3
3.5
4.3
3.1.1
2.3

3.1.2
3.1.4
3.1.4

4.3
4.1

4.2
4.3
3.1.5
3.1.6

3.6

4.2
4.3
3.7

3.6

2014
£m

248
1,129
14
16
13
43
1,463

367
385
24
409
11
297
1,084

(85)
(12)
(699)
(27)
(726)
(72)
(17)
(912)

172

(171)
(12)
(346)
(38)
(4)
(571)
1,064

Attributable to equity shareholders of the parent company
Share capital
Share premium
Merger and other reserves
Translation reserve
Available for sale reserve
Retained earnings
Total equity attributable to equity shareholders of the parent company
Non-controlling interests
Total equity
The accounts were approved by the Board of Directors on 4 March 2015 and were signed on its behalf by:

4.6.1
4.6.1
4.6.2

403
174
228
25
7
177
1,014
50
1,064

Ian Griffiths  
Group Finance Director

2013
£m

259
954
4
41
10
52
1,320

322
388
14
402
32
518
1,274

(62)
(6)
(702)
(42)
(744)
(36)
(19)
(867)

407

(318)
(27)
(445)
(40)
(8)
(838)
889

403
174
248
7
4
22
858
31
889

109

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsConsolidated Statement  
of Changes in Equity

Attributable to equity shareholders of the parent company

Retained 
earnings
£m

22

Non- 
controlling
interests
£m

31

Total
£m

858

466

466

–
–

–

24

(3)
21
487

3
(4)

22

24

(3)
42
508

7

–
–

–

–

–
–
7

Total 
equity
£m

889

473

3
(4)

22

24

(3)
42
515

(313)

(313)

(8)

(321)

14

14

(33)

(33)

(332)
(332)
–
177

(332)
(332)
(20)
1,014

–

–

14

(33)

(340)
(8)
(340)
(8)
20
–
50 1,064

Items that may be
reclassified to profit
or loss

Merger
and 
other
reserves
£m

Translation
reserve
£m

Available 
for sale
 reserve
£m

Share
capital
£m

Share
premium
£m

Note

3.7

2.3

Balance at 1 January 2014
Total comprehensive income for the year
Profit
Other comprehensive income/(cost)
Revaluation of available for sale 
financial assets
Net loss on cash flow hedges
Exchange differences on translation  
of foreign operations
Remeasurement gains on defined 
benefit pension schemes
Income tax charge on other  
comprehensive income
Total other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income for the year
Transactions with owners, recorded 
directly in equity
Contributions by and distributions  
to owners
Equity dividends
Movements due to share-based 
compensation
Purchase of own shares via  
employees’ benefit trust
Total contributions by and  
distributions to owners
Total transactions with owners
Changes in non-controlling interests(a)
Balance at 31 December 2014

4.7

4.7

3.4
4.6

403

174

248

–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–
403

–
–
–
174

–
–
(20)
228

7

–

–
(4)

22

–

–
18
18

–

–

–

–
–
–
25

4

–

3
–

–

–

–
3
3

–

–

–

–
–
–
7

(a) Movements reported in merger and other reserves include a put option for the acquisition of non-controlling interests.

110

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Consolidated Statement   
of Changes in Equity

Attributable to equity shareholders of the parent company

Items that may be
reclassified to profit
or loss

Share
capital
£m

Share
premium
£m

Note

Merger
and 
other
reserves
£m

Translation
reserve
£m

Available
for sale
 reserve
£m

Retained 
earnings
(restated)
£m

3.7

2.3

Balance at 1 January 2013
Total comprehensive income for the year
Profit
Other comprehensive income/(cost)
Revaluation of available for sale 
financial assets
Exchange differences on translation 
of foreign operations
Remeasurement losses on defined 
benefit pension schemes 
Income tax on other  
comprehensive income
Total other comprehensive cost
Total comprehensive income for the year
Transactions with owners, recorded 
directly in equity
Contributions by and distributions 
to owners
Equity dividends
Equity portion of the convertible bond 4.1
Movements due to share-based 
compensation
Purchase of own shares via  
employees’ benefit trust
Issue of new shares
Total contributions by and 
distributions to owners
Total transactions with owners
Changes in non-controlling interests(a) 3.4
4.6
Balance at 31 December 2013

4.7
4.6.1

4.7

391

122

283

13

–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–
10

–

–
2

12
12
–
403

–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–
52

–

–
–

52
52
–
174

–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–
(22)

–

–
–

(22)
(22)
(13)
248

–

–

(6)

–

–
(6)
(6)

–
–

–

–
–

–
–
–
7

7

–

(3)

–

–

–
(3)
(3)

–
–

–

–
–

–
–
–
4

(a) Movements reported in merger and other reserves include a put option for the acquisition of non-controlling interests.

Non-
controlling
interests
£m

15

Total
£m

817

1

326

326

–

–

(3)

(6)

48

48

(13)
35
361

(13)
26
352

4

–

–

–

–
–
4

Total
equity
£m

832

330

(3)

(6)

48

(13)
26
356

(271)
(70)

(271)
(30)

(1)
–

(272)
(30)

14

14

(13)
–

(13)
2

(340)
(340)
–
22

(298)
(298)
(13)
858

–

–
–

(1)
(1)
13
31

14

(13)
2

(299)
(299)
–
889

111

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsConsolidated Statement of Cash Flows

For the year ended 31 December

Note

£m

Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations before exceptional items:
Cash flow relating to operating exceptional items:
  Net operating loss

  Increase/(decrease) in payables and provisions 

Cash outflow from exceptional items
Cash generated from operations
Defined benefit pension deficit funding
Interest received
Interest paid on bank and other loans
Interest paid on finance leases
Net taxation paid

Net cash inflow from operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Redemption of gilts
Acquisition of subsidiary undertakings
Cash balances of subsidiaries acquired in period
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment
Acquisition of intangible assets
Acquisition of investments
Loans granted to associates and joint ventures
Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries, joint ventures and 
available for sale investments
Net cash inflow/(outflow) from investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Bank and other loans – amounts repaid
Capital element of finance lease payments
Issue of share capital
Equity dividends paid
Dividend paid to minority interest
Purchase of own shares via employees’ benefit trust
Net cash outflow from financing activities
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January
Effects of exchange rate changes and fair value movements
Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December

(10)
3

(91)
41
(51)
(1)
(85)

–
(220)
6
15
(27)
(10)
(7)
(3)

1

(110)
(21)
–
(313)
(8)
(33)

2.1

2.2

4.1
3.4
3.4

4.1

4.1

2014
£m

702

(7)
695

(187)
508

2013
£m

649

(11)
638

(171)
467

£m

(5)
(6)

(80)
38
(60)
(2)
(67)

165
(66)
10
4
(101)
(2)
–
(4)

8

(245)

14

(365)
(8)
2
(271)
(1)
(13)

(485)
(222)
518
1
297

(656)
(175)
690
3
518

112

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial Statements 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Notes to the Financial Statements 
Section 1: Basis of Preparation

In this section . . . 

This section sets out the Group’s accounting policies that relate to the financial statements as a whole. Where an 
accounting policy is specific to one note, the policy is described in the note to which it relates. This section also shows 
new EU endorsed accounting standards, amendments and interpretations, and whether they are effective in 2014 or 
later years. We explain how these changes are expected to impact the financial position and performance of  
the Group.

The financial statements consolidate those of ITV plc (‘the 
Company’) and its subsidiaries (together referred to as ‘the 
Group’) and include the Group’s interests in associates and 
jointly controlled entities. The Company is domiciled in the 
United Kingdom.

After making enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable 
expectation that the Group has adequate resources to 
continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. 
Accordingly, the Group continues to adopt the going concern 
basis in preparing its consolidated financial statements.

As required by EU law (IAS Regulation EC 1606/2002) the 
Group’s accounts have been prepared in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by 
the EU (‘IFRS’), and approved by the Directors.

The financial statements are principally prepared on the 
basis of historical cost. Where other bases are applied these 
are identified in the relevant accounting policy.

The Company has elected to prepare its parent company 
financial statements in accordance with UK GAAP.

Going concern
As at the year end the Group was in a positive net cash 
position, and its continued generation of significant free 
cash flows has enabled further acquisitions and the payment 
of a special dividend. The Group has also sought to gain 
further efficiencies in the balance sheet by repurchasing 
debt where it is economically beneficial to do so, and has 
established flexible financing through new, longer term 
revolving credit facility arrangements (see section 4 for 
details on capital structure and financing).

The Group continues to review forecasts of the television 
advertising market to determine the impact on ITV’s 
liquidity position. The Group’s forecasts and projections, 
taking account of reasonably possible changes in trading 
performance, show that the Group will be able to operate 
within the level of its current funding.

The Group also continues to focus on development of the 
non-advertising business, and evaluates the impact of 
further investment in acquisitions against the strategy and 
cash headroom of the business.

Subsidiaries, joint ventures, associates and  
special purpose entities
Subsidiaries are entities that are directly or indirectly 
controlled by the Group. Control exists where the Group has 
the power to govern the financial and operating policies of 
the entity in order to obtain benefits from its activities. In 
assessing control, potential voting rights that are currently 
exercisable or convertible are taken into account.

A joint venture is a joint arrangement in which the Group 
holds an interest under a contractual arrangement where the 
Group and one or more other parties undertake an economic 
activity that is subject to joint control. The Group accounts for 
its interests in joint ventures using the equity method. Under 
the equity method the investment in the entity is stated as 
one line item at cost plus the investor’s share of retained 
post-acquisition profits and other changes in net assets.

An associate is an entity, other than a subsidiary or joint 
venture, over which the Group has significant influence. 
Significant influence is the power to participate in, but 
not control or jointly control, the financial and operating 
decisions of an entity. These investments are also accounted 
for using the equity method.

For investments where the Group has concluded it does not 
have significant influence, then the asset is held at cost in 
non-current assets.

113

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 1: Basis of Preparation continued

A special purpose entity (‘SPE’) is a legal entity which 
the Group may establish to fulfil a specific trading 
and investment purpose. Judgement is required when 
determining if an SPE should be consolidated and involves 
the evaluation of the substance of its relationships with 
the Group and the SPE’s risks and rewards. Those SPEs 
controlled by the Group are established under terms that 
impose strict limitations on the decision-making powers of 
their management and that result in the Group receiving the 
majority of the benefits related to their operations and net 
assets, being exposed to the majority of risks incidental to 
their activities and receiving the majority of the residual or 
ownership risks related to the SPEs or their assets.

SPEs are used in limited circumstances by the Group. The 
only significant SPEs are the pension funding partnerships 
that were established in 2010 and March 2014 between the 
Group and the Trustee of the ITV Pension Scheme as a way 
of establishing payment streams to the pension scheme. 
The partnerships, both Scottish Limited Partnerships, are 
controlled and consolidated by the Group.

Current/non-current distinction
Current assets include assets held primarily for trading 
purposes, cash and cash equivalents, and assets expected 
to be realised in, or intended for sale or use in, the course of 
the Group’s operating cycle. All other assets are classified as 
non-current assets.

Current liabilities include liabilities held primarily for trading 
purposes, liabilities expected to be settled in the course of 
the Group’s operating cycle and those liabilities due within 
one year from the reporting date. All other liabilities are 
classified as non-current liabilities.

Classification of financial instruments
The financial assets and liabilities of the Group are  
classified into the following financial statement captions  
in the statement of financial position in accordance with  
IAS 39 Financial Instruments:
•	 ‘Loans and receivables’ – separately disclosed as cash and 
cash equivalents (excluding gilts over which unfunded 
pension commitments have a charge) and trade and 
other receivables;

•	 ‘Available for sale financial assets’ – measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income. Includes gilts over 
which unfunded pension commitments have a charge;
•	 ‘Financial assets/liabilities at fair value through profit 
or loss’ – separately disclosed as derivative financial 
instruments in assets/liabilities and included in non-
current other payables (contingent consideration); and

•	 ‘Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost’ – 

separately disclosed as borrowings and trade and other 
payables.

Judgement is required when determining the appropriate 
classification of the Group’s financial instruments. Details 
on the accounting policies for measurement of the above 
instruments are set out in the relevant note.

Recognition and derecognition of financial assets  
and liabilities
The Group recognises a financial asset or liability when it 
becomes a party to the contract. Financial instruments are 
no longer recognised in the statement of financial position 
when the contractual cash flows expire or when the Group 
no longer retains control of substantially all the risks and 
rewards under the instrument.

Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances, call 
deposits with a maturity of less than or equal to three 
months from the date of acquisition, cash held to meet 
certain finance lease commitments and gilts in respect 
of which a charging deed was executed on the unfunded 
pension commitments of four former Granada executives. 
The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents is considered 
to approximate fair value.

114

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Accounting judgements and estimates
The preparation of financial statements requires 
management to exercise judgement in applying the Group’s 
accounting policies. It also requires the use of estimates and 
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, 
liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ 
from these estimates.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an 
ongoing basis, with revisions recognised in the period in 
which the estimates are revised and in any future periods 
affected.

The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or 
complexity are set out below and in more detail in the 
related notes:
•	 Revenue recognition (note 2.1)
•	 Classification of financial instruments (included in  

this note)

•	 Business combinations (note 3.3 and note 3.4)
The areas involving the most sensitive estimates and 
assumptions that are significant to the financial statements 
are set out below and in more detail in the related notes:
•	 Defined benefit pension schemes, including the related 

longevity swap (note 3.7)

•	 Taxation (note 2.3)
•	 Provisions (note 3.6)
•	 Business combinations (note 3.4)
•	 Impairment of assets (note 3.2 and note 3.3)
•	 Financial instruments (note 4.1)

Foreign currencies
The primary economic environment in which the Group 
operates is the UK and therefore the consolidated financial 
statements are presented in pounds sterling (‘£’).

Where Group companies based in the UK transact in 
foreign currencies, these transactions are translated into 
pounds sterling at the exchange rate on the transaction 
date. Foreign currency monetary assets and liabilities are 
translated into pounds sterling at the year end exchange 
rate. Where there is a movement in the exchange rate 
between the date of the transaction and the year end,  
a foreign exchange gain or loss is recognised in the income 
statement.

Hedge accounting is implemented on certain foreign 
currency firm commitments, which allows for the effective 
portion of any foreign exchange gains or losses to be 
recognised in other comprehensive income (note 4.3).

Where a forward currency contract is used to manage 
foreign exchange risk and hedge accounting is not  
applied, any movement in currency is taken to the  
income statement.

Non-monetary assets and liabilities measured at historical 
cost are translated into pounds sterling at the exchange  
rate on the date of the transaction.

The assets and liabilities of Group companies outside of 
the UK are translated into pounds sterling at the year 
end exchange rate. The revenue and expenses of these 
companies are translated into pounds sterling at the 
average monthly exchange rate during the year. Where 
differences arise between these rates, they are recognised  
in the translation reserve within other comprehensive 
income.

Exchange differences arising on the translation of 
the Group’s interests in joint ventures and associates 
are recognised in the translation reserve within other 
comprehensive income.

On disposal of a subsidiary outside the UK or an interest in a 
joint venture or an associate, the related translation reserve 
is released to the income statement as part of the gain or 
loss on disposal.

115

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 1: Basis of Preparation continued

New or amended EU endorsed accounting standards
The table below represents new or amended EU endorsed accounting standards relevant to the Group’s results that are 
effective in 2014: 

Impact on financial statements
The amendments have not had any impact  
on the net asset position of the Group.

The amendments have not had any impact  
on the assets currently held by the Group.

The amendments have not had any impact  
on the hedging contracts held by the Group 
within the year.

A review of the Group’s investments was carried 
out in the context of IFRS 10–12 in order to 
ensure that their classification and accounting 
treatment remains appropriate. There is 
no impact on the accounting treatment of 
investments currently held within the Group 
and appropriate disclosures have been made in 
notes 3.4 and 3.5 to the financial statements.

Accounting Standard
IAS 32 Financial 
Instruments

IAS 36 Impairment 
of Assets

IAS 39 Financial 
Instruments: 
Recognition and 
Measurement
IFRS 10

IFRS 11

IFRS 12

Requirement
The amendments clarify the offsetting criteria, such 
as when an entity has a legal right to offset and  
when gross settlement is equivalent to net 
settlement.
The amendments modify some of the disclosure 
requirements regarding measurement of the 
recoverable amount of impaired assets.
The amendments remove the need to discontinue 
hedge accounting if a hedging derivative is novated, 
provided certain criteria are met.

IFRS 10 replaces a portion of IAS 27 Consolidated and 
Separate Financial Statements that addresses the 
accounting for consolidated financial statements.  
It also includes the issues raised in SIC-12 
Consolidation – Special Purpose Entities. 

IFRS 10 establishes a single control model that 
applies to all entities including special purpose 
entities. The changes introduced by IFRS 10 will 
require management to exercise significant 
judgement to determine which entities are controlled 
and therefore are required to be consolidated by a 
parent, compared with the requirements that were  
in IAS 27.
IFRS 11 replaces IAS 31 Interests in Joint Ventures and 
SIC-13 Jointly Controlled Entities – Non-Monetary 
Contributions by Venturers.

IFRS 11 removes the option to account for jointly 
controlled entities (JCEs) using proportionate 
consolidation. Instead, JCEs that meet the definition 
of a joint venture must be accounted for using the 
equity method.
IFRS 12 includes all of the disclosures that were 
previously in IAS 27 related to consolidated financial 
statements, as well as all of the disclosures that 
were previously included in IAS 31 and IAS 28. 
These disclosures relate to an entity’s interests in 
subsidiaries, joint arrangements, associates and 
structured entities.

The Directors also considered the impact on the Group of other new and revised accounting standards, interpretations or 
amendments on the Group that are currently endorsed but not yet effective. There are none that are effective for periods 
beginning on or after 1 January 2015 that are expected  to have a significant impact on the Group’s results.

116

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsSection 2: Results for the Year

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

In this section . . . 

This section focuses on the results and performance of the Group. On the following pages you will find disclosures 
explaining the Group’s results for the year, segmental information, exceptional items, taxation and earnings per share.

Keeping it simple . . . 

This section analyses the Group’s profit before tax by reference to the activities performed by the Group and an 
analysis of key operating costs.

Earnings before interest, tax, amortisation (EBITA) and before exceptional items remains the Group’s key profit 
indicator. This reflects the way the business is managed and how the Directors assess the performance of the Group. 
This section therefore also shows each division’s contribution to total revenue and EBITA.

2.1 Profit before tax 
Accounting policies
Revenue recognition
Revenue is stated exclusive of VAT and comprises the sale 
of products and services to third parties. Selecting the 
appropriate timing and amount of revenue recognised 
requires some judgement. Revenue from the sale of 
products is recognised when the Group has transferred 
both the significant risks and rewards of ownership and 
control of the products sold, and the amount of revenue 
can be measured reliably. Revenue recognition criteria for 
the Group’s key classes of revenue are recognised on the 
following bases:

Applicable 
segment
Broadcast & 
Online

Broadcast & 
Online

Class of revenue
Advertising (NAR), 
Video on Demand 
(VOD)
Sponsorship

Broadcast  
& Online

Pay

Broadcast  
& Online

Studios

Participation 
(interactive & brand 
extensions)
Programme  
production

Studios

Programme 
distribution rights

Studios

Digital: Archive 

Recognition criteria
in month of transmission

across period of 
transmission of the 
sponsored programme 
or series
an estimate is accrued in 
the month and trued up 
on receipt of third party 
reports showing revenue 
share calculation 
(showing subscribers or 
number of downloads)
as the service is provided 
or event occurs

on delivery of episode 
and acceptance by the 
customer
when the contract is 
signed and content is 
available for exploitation
on delivery of content 
(one-off) or over the 
contract period in a 
manner that reflects the 
flow of content delivered 
(top-up) 

117

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 2: Results for the Year continued

The results for the year aggregate these classes of revenue 
into four significant categories:

Broadcast & Online
NAR
Non-NAR
ITV Studios
Productions
Distribution
Total revenue

2014
£m

1,629
394

789
144
2,956

2013
£m

1,542
354

722
135
2,753

Segmental information
Operating segments, which have not been aggregated, are 
reported in a manner that is consistent with the internal 
reporting provided to the Board of Directors, regarded as  
the chief operating decision maker.

The Board of Directors considers the business primarily from 
a product or activity perspective. The reportable segments 
for the years ended 31 December 2014 and 31 December 
2013 are therefore ‘Broadcast & Online’ and ‘ITV Studios’,  
the results of which are outlined in the following tables:

Broadcast
& Online
2014
£m

ITV Studios*
2014
£m

Consolidated
2014
£m

2,023

–

933

(366)

2,956

(366)

2,023

567

2,590

568

162

730

–

–

–

Broadcast
& Online
2013
£m

ITV Studios*
2013
£m

Consolidated
2013
£m

1,896
–

857
(364)

2,753
(364)

1,896

493

2,389

487

133

620

(2)

–

(2)

Total segment 
revenue

Intersegment revenue
Revenue from external 
customers
EBITA before 
exceptional items
Share of losses of joint 
ventures and associated 
undertakings

Total segment 
revenue
Intersegment revenue
Revenue from external 
customers
EBITA before 
exceptional items
Share of losses of joint 
ventures and associated 
undertakings

*  Revenue of £255 million (2013: £199 million) was generated in the US during 
the year, and represented £297 million (2013: £83 million) of non-current 
assets at year end.

118

Intersegment revenue, which is carried out on arm’s 
length terms, is generated from the supply of ITV Studios 
programmes to Broadcast & Online for transmission primarily 
on ITV. This revenue stream is a measure which forms part of 
the Group’s strategic priority of building a strong international 
content business, as by producing and retaining rights to the 
broadcast shows the Group benefits further from subsequent 
international content and format sales. 

In preparing the segment information, centrally managed 
costs have been allocated between reportable segments on 
a methodology driven principally by revenue, headcount and 
building occupancy of each segment. This is consistent with 
the basis of reporting to the Board of Directors.

Broadcast & Online 
The Group operates the largest commercial family of 
channels in the UK and delivers content through traditional 
television broadcasting. In addition to linear broadcast, the 
Group delivers its content either through ITV Player, which is 
available on multiple platforms including ITV’s website and 
pay platforms, or through direct content deals. The content, 
which is commissioned and scheduled by this segment, is 
funded primarily by television advertising, where revenue is 
generated from the sale of audiences for advertising airtime 
and sponsorship. 

Other sources of revenue are from: online advertising, 
revenue from pay platforms such as Sky, SDN revenue 
(which generates licence sales for DTT Multiplex A), and 
participation revenue (which includes interactive sales from 
competitions).

ITV Studios 
ITV Studios is the Group’s international content business, 
creating and producing programmes and formats that 
return and travel, namely drama, entertainment and factual 
entertainment.

ITV Studios UK is the largest commercial producer in the  
UK and produces programming for the Group’s own 
channels, accounting for 60% of ITV network spend. 
Programming is also sold to other UK broadcasters such as 
the BBC, Channel 4 and Sky. 

ITV Studios America is the largest unscripted independent 
producer of content in the US and is growing its scripted 
presence by increasing investment in high profile dramas 
straight to series.

ITV Studios also operates in four other international 
locations being Australia, Germany, France and the Nordics, 
where content is produced for local broadcasters. This 
content is either locally created IP or formats that have been 
created elsewhere by ITV, primarily the UK. 

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Global Entertainment, ITV’s distribution business, licenses 
ITV’s finished programmes and formats and third party 
content internationally. Within this business we also 
finance productions both on and off ITV to acquire global 
distribution rights.

EBITA before exceptional items
The Directors assess the performance of the reportable 
segments based on a measure of EBITA before exceptional 
items. The Directors use this measurement basis as 
it excludes the effect of non-recurring income and 
expenditure. Amortisation and share of profit/(losses) of 
joint ventures and associates are also excluded to reflect 
more accurately how the business is managed and measured 
on a day-to-day basis. Net financing costs and tax are 
not allocated to segments as the funding, cash and tax 
management of the Group are activities carried out by the 
central treasury and tax functions.

A reconciliation from EBITA before exceptional items to 
profit before tax is provided as follows:

EBITA before exceptional items
Operating exceptional items
Amortisation of intangible assets
Net financing costs
Share of losses of joint ventures 
and associated undertakings
Gain on sale of non-current assets 
(exceptional items)

Gain on sale of subsidiaries and 
investments (exceptional items)
Profit before tax

2014
£m
730
(12)
(67)
(51)

–

4

1
605

2013
 £m
620
(8)
(66)
(115)

(2)

–

6
435

The Group’s principal operations are in the United Kingdom. 
Its revenue from external customers in the United Kingdom 
is £2,123 million (2013: £1,982 million), and total revenue 
from external customers in other countries is £467 million 
(2013: £407 million). 

There are two media buying agencies (2013: three) acting on 
behalf of a number of customers that represent the Group’s 
major customers. These agencies are the only customers 
which individually  represent over 10% of the Group’s 
revenue. Revenue of approximately £571 million (2013: £527 
million) and £312 million (2013: £235 million) was derived 
from these customers. This revenue is attributable to the 
‘Broadcast & Online’ segment.

Cash generated from operations
A reconciliation from profit before tax to cash generated 
from operations before exceptional items is as follows:

Cash flows from operating 
activities
Profit before tax
Gain on sale of subsidiaries and 
investments (exceptional items)
Gain on sale  of non-current assets 
(exceptional items)
Share of losses of joint ventures 
and associated undertakings
Net financing costs
Operating exceptional items
Depreciation of property, plant 
and equipment
Amortisation of intangible assets
Share-based compensation and 
pension service costs
 Increase in programme rights and 
other inventory, and distribution 
rights
Decrease/(increase) in receivables
(Decrease)/increase in payables
Movement in working capital
Cash generated from operations 
before exceptional items

2014
£m

2013
£m

605

435

(1)

(4)

–
51
12

27
67

14

(39)
18
(48)
(69)

(6)

–

2
115
8

24
66

20

(42)
(15)
42
(15)

702

649

Included in the increase in inventory is the investment by ITV 
Studios in high end drama, which is discussed in the Financial 
and Performance Review on pages 42 and 43.

Operating costs
Staff costs
Staff costs before exceptional items can be analysed  
as follows:

Wages and salaries
Social security and other costs
Share-based compensation 
(see note 4.7)
Pension costs
Total staff costs
Less: staff costs allocated to 
productions
FTEE staff costs (non-production)

2014
£m
293
45

14
22
374

(136)
238

2013
£m
255
42

14
19
330

(103)
227

119

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 2: Results for the Year continued

The number of full-time equivalent employees (‘FTEE’) 
(excluding short-term contractors and freelancers who 
are predominantly allocated to the cost of productions), 
calculated on a weighted average basis, during the year was:

Broadcast & Online
ITV Studios

2014
2,042
2,517
4,559

2013
2,049
2,208
4,257

The increase in full-time equivalent employees in ITV Studios 
is primarily driven by the acquisitions completed in 2014.

Details of Directors’ emoluments, share options, pension 
entitlements and long-term incentive scheme interests are 
set out in the Remuneration Report. Listed Directors’ gains 
on share options for 2014 are set out in the ITV plc entity 
financial statements.

Read more on the Remuneration Report on pages 82 to 99.

Depreciation
Depreciation in the year was £27 million (2013: £24 million), 
of which £15 million (2013: £12 million) relates to ‘Broadcast 
& Online’ and £12 million (2013: £12 million) to ‘ITV Studios’.

Operating leases
The total undiscounted future minimum lease payments 
under non-cancellable operating leases fall due for payment 
as follows:

2014
Within one year
Later than one year 
and not later than five 
years
Later than five years

2013
Within one year
Later than one year 
and not later than five 
years
Later than five years

Transponders
38

Property
13

123
158
319

33
16
62

Transponders
36

Property
12

138
194
368

23
11
46

Total
51

156
174
381

Total
48

161
205
414

The Group’s operating leases relate to transponder 
assets and office  and studio properties. The Group holds 
transmission supply agreements that require the use of 
specific transponder assets for a period of up to ten years 
with payments increasing over time, limited by specific RPI 
caps. These supply agreements are classified as operating 
leases, in accordance with the Group’s policy on leases 
detailed in note 3.2. 

120

Property leases typically run for a period of up to eight years 
and may have an option to renew after that date (options 
to renew are not included in the commitments table). Lease 
payments are generally subject to market review every 
five years to reflect market rentals, but because of the 
uncertainty over the amount of any future changes, such 
changes have not been reflected in the table above. None of 
the lease agreements include contingent rentals. 

The total future minimum sublease payments expected to 
be received under non-cancellable subleases at the year end 
are £2 million (2013: £2 million).

The  total operating lease expenditure recognised during the 
year was £49 million (2013: £45 million) and total sublease 
payments received were £1 million (2013: £2 million).

Audit fees
The Group engages KPMG LLP (‘KPMG’) on assignments 
additional to their  statutory audit duties where their 
expertise and experience with the Group are important. 

Read more on the Group’s policy regarding additional assignments in 
the Audit Committee Report on page 81. 

Fees paid to KPMG and its associates during the year are set 
out below:

2014
£m

2013
£m

 For the audit of the Group’s 
annual accounts
 For the audit of subsidiaries of 
the Group
 Audit-related assurance services

Total audit and audit-related 
assurance services

 Taxation compliance services
 Taxation advisory services
 Other assurance services

Total non-audit Services
Total fees paid to KPMG

0.6

0.2
0.2

1.0
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.6
1.6

0.7

0.2
0.1

1.0
0.1
0.2
0.2
0.5
1.5

There  were no fees payable in 2014 or 2013 to KPMG and 
associates for the auditing of accounts of any associate of the 
Group, internal audit services, services relating to corporate 
finance transactions entered into or proposed to be entered 
into, by or on behalf of the Group or any of its associates. 

Fees  paid to KPMG for audit and other services to the Company 
are not disclosed in its individual accounts as the Group accounts 
are required to disclose such fees on a consolidated basis.

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial Statements 
 
 
 
 
 
2.2 Exceptional items

Keeping it simple . . . 

Exceptional items are material and are excluded 
from management’s assessment of profit because by 
their nature they could distort the Group’s underlying 
quality of earnings. They are typically gains or losses 
arising from events that are not considered part of 
the core operations of the business (e.g. costs relating 
to capital transactions, such as professional fees on 
acquisitions). These items are excluded to reflect 
performance in a consistent manner and are in line 
with how the business is managed and measured on a 
day-to-day basis.

Accounting policies
Exceptional items as described above are disclosed on the 
face of the income statement. 

Subsequent revisions of estimates for items initially 
recognised as exceptional are recorded as exceptional items 
in the year that the revision is made. Gains or losses on 
disposal of non-core assets are also considered exceptional 
due to their nature and impact on the Group’s underlying 
quality of earnings.

Exceptional items
Operating and non-operating exceptional items are analysed 
as follows:

(Charge)/credit
Operating exceptional items:

 Reorganisation and 
restructuring costs
 Acquisition-related expenses

Total net operating 
exceptional items
Non-operating exceptional items:
 Gain on sale of non-current assets
 Gain on sale and  
impairment of subsidiaries  
and investments
Total non-operating 
exceptional items
Total exceptional items  
before tax
Total exceptional items  
net of tax

Ref.

2014
£m

2013
£m

A
B

C

D

(6)
(6)

(12)

4

1

5

(7)

(5)

–
(8)

(8)

–

6

6

(2)

(1)

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

A – Reorganisation and restructuring costs
In 2014 £6 million of non-recurring costs were incurred as  
a result of an ITV Studios restructuring initiative with the  
aim of driving commerciality and efficiencies within the  
UK production business.

B – Acquisition-related expenses
Acquisition-related expenses of £6 million include 
professional fees (mainly financial and legal due diligence) 
incurred on the acquisitions completed during the year of  
£3 million (2013: £5 million; see also note 3.4), and 
expenses in the period with respect to performance-based, 
employment linked contingent costs accrued to former 
owners of £3 million (2013: £3 million).

C – Gain on sale of non-current assets
In 2014 a £4 million gain on sale of non-current assets arose 
primarily as a result of the sale of a freehold property in 
Cardiff.

D – Gain on sale and impairment of subsidiaries  
and investments
The gain of £1 million in 2014 relates to a historical disposal. 
In 2013 the credit principally related to the gain of £6 million 
recognised on disposal of STV shares.

121

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial Statements 
 
 
 
Section 2: Results for the Year continued

•	 differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to 
the extent that they will probably not reverse in the 
foreseeable future.

The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the 
expected manner of realisation or settlement of the 
carrying amount of assets and liabilities. A deferred tax 
asset is recognised only to the extent that it is probable 
that sufficient taxable profit will be available to utilise the 
temporary difference.

Recognition of deferred tax assets, therefore, involves 
judgement regarding the timing and level of future taxable 
income. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are disclosed net 
to the extent that they relate to taxes levied by the same 
authority and the Group has the right of set-off.

Taxation – Income statement
The total taxation charge in the income statement is 
analysed as follows:

2014
£m

2013
£m

Current tax:
  Current tax charge before 
  exceptional items

 Current tax charge on  
exceptional items

  Adjustments for prior periods

Deferred tax:

 Origination and reversal of  
temporary differences
 Adjustments for prior periods

(118)

(2)
(120)
(6)
(126)

(9)
3
(6)

(78)

(2)
(80)
3
(77)

(25)
(3)
(28)

Total taxation charge in the  
income statement

(132)

(105)

Adjustments for prior periods primarily arise where an 
outcome is obtained on certain tax matters which differs 
from expectations held when the related provision was 
made. Where the outcome is more favourable than the 
provision made, the difference is released, lowering 
the current year tax charge. Where the outcome is less 
favourable than our provision, an additional charge to 
current year tax will occur.

2.3 Taxation

Keeping it simple . . . 

This section lays out the tax accounting policies, the 
current and deferred tax charges or credits in the year 
(which together make up the total tax charge or credit 
in the income statement), a reconciliation of what the 
tax charge on profits would be at the standard UK rate 
to the actual charge recorded and the movements in 
deferred tax assets and liabilities.

Accounting policies
The tax charge for the period is recognised in the income 
statement and the statement of comprehensive income, 
according to the accounting treatment of the related 
transaction. The tax charge comprises both current and 
deferred tax. The calculation of the Group’s total tax charge 
involves a degree of estimation and judgement in respect 
of certain items whose tax treatment cannot be finally 
determined until a resolution has been reached by the 
relevant tax authority. 

Current tax is the expected tax payable or receivable on the 
taxable income or loss for the year and any adjustment in 
respect of previous years. The current tax charge is based on 
tax rates that are enacted or substantively enacted at the 
year end.

The Group recognises liabilities for anticipated tax issues 
based on estimates of the additional taxes that are likely 
to become due, which require judgement. Amounts are 
accrued based on management’s interpretation of specific 
tax law and the likelihood of settlement. Where the final 
tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts 
that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the 
income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which 
such determination is made, resulting in an adjustment to 
prior periods.

Deferred tax arises due to certain temporary differences 
between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities 
for financial reporting purposes and those for taxation 
purposes. The following temporary differences are not 
provided for:
•	 the initial recognition of goodwill;
•	 the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect 
neither accounting nor taxable profit other than in a 
business combination; and

122

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial Statements 
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Non-deductible expenses are expenses that are not 
expected to be allowable for tax purposes. Similarly, non-
taxable income is income that will not be taxed.

The effective tax rate is the tax charge on the face of the 
income statement expressed as a percentage of the profit 
before tax. In the years ended 31 December 2014 and  
31 December 2013, the effective tax rate is comparable to 
the standard rate of UK corporation tax. As explained in 
the Financial and Performance Review, the Group uses an 
adjusted tax rate to show the cash tax impact on its adjusted 
earnings.

In order to understand how, in the income statement, a  
tax charge of £132 million (2013: £105 million) arises on a 
profit before tax of £605 million (2013: £435 million), the 
taxation charge that would arise at the standard rate of  
UK corporation tax is reconciled to the actual tax charge  
as follows:

2014
£m
605

2013
£m
435

(130)

(101)

Profit before tax
Taxation charge at UK corporation 
tax rate of 21.5% (2013: 23.25%)
Non-taxable income/non-
deductible expenses
Adjustments for prior periods
Impact of changes in tax rate
Other
Total taxation charge in the  
income statement

1
(3)
–
–

1
–
(4)
(1)

Taxation – Other comprehensive income
Within other comprehensive income a tax charge totalling 
£3 million (2013: charge of £13 million) has been recognised 
representing deferred tax as analysed in the table below.

(132)

(105)

Taxation – Statement of financial position
The table below outlines the deferred tax assets/(liabilities) that are recognised in the statement of financial position, 
together with their movements in the year:

Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Programme rights
Pension scheme deficits
UK tax losses
Share-based compensation
Overseas
Other

Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Programme rights
Pension scheme deficits
UK tax losses
Share-based compensation
Overseas
Other

At
1 January
2014
£m
(6)
(19)
1
56
1
13
10
(4)
52

At
1 January
2013
£m
(6)
(34)
1
96
17
9
9
1
93

Recognised in
the income
statement
£m
5
11
–
(16)
(1)
–
(6)
1
(6)

Recognised in
the income
statement
(restated) 
£m
–
15
–
(27)
(16)
(1)
1
–
(28)

Recognised
in OCI
£m
–
–
–
(4)
–
1
–
–
(3)

Recognised
in OCI
(restated) 
£m
–
–
–
(13)
–
5
–
(5)
(13)

At
31 December
2014
£m
(1)
(8)
1
36
–
14
4
(3)
43

At
31 December
2013
 £m
(6)
(19)
1
56
1
13
10
(4)
52

123

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 2: Results for the Year continued

2.4 Earnings per share

Keeping it simple . . . 

Earnings per share (‘EPS’) is the amount of post-tax 
profit attributable to each share.

Basic EPS is calculated on the Group profit for the year 
attributable to equity shareholders of £466 million 
(2013: £326 million) divided by 4,002 million (2013: 
3,929 million) being the weighted average number  
of shares in issue during the year.

Diluted EPS reflects any commitments the Group has 
to issue shares in the future and so includes the impact 
of share options. 

Basic EPS is adjusted in order to show the business 
performance of the Group in a consistent manner and 
reflect how the business is managed and measured 
on a day-to-day basis. Adjusted EPS is adjusted for 
exceptional items which include acquisition-related 
costs (professional fees, primarily due diligence, and 
performance-based, employment-linked contingent 
payments), impairment of intangible assets, 
amortisation of intangible assets acquired through 
business combinations, net financing cost adjustments 
and prior period and other tax adjustments.

The calculation of EPS and adjusted EPS, together with the 
diluted impact on each, is set out below:

Earnings per share 2014

Ref.

Basic
£m

Diluted
£m

Profit for the year attributable 
to equity shareholders of ITV plc
Weighted average number of 
ordinary shares in issue – million
Dilution due to share options
Total weighted average number of 
ordinary shares in issue – million
Earnings per ordinary share

A

466

466

4,002
–

4,002
11.6

4,002
38

4,040
11.5

At 31 December 2014, total deferred tax assets are £55 
million (2013: £81 million) and total deferred tax liabilities 
are £12 million (2013: £29 million).

The deferred tax balance relates to:
•	 property, plant and equipment temporary differences 
arising on assets qualifying for capital allowances;
•	 temporary differences on intangible assets arising on 

business combinations;

•	 temporary differences on intercompany profits on 

programme rights;

•	 pension scheme deficit temporary differences on the 
IAS 19 pension deficit and additional contributions 
resulting from funding through the SDN and LTVC pension 
partnerships (not recognised as contributions under  
IAS 19);

•	 UK tax loss temporary differences in receiving the benefit 

of the Group’s tax losses;

•	 share-based compensation temporary differences on 

share schemes;

•	 overseas temporary differences on intangible assets and 

net operating losses arising in the US; and

•	 other temporary differences on miscellaneous items.
Deferred tax is provided at 20% (2013: 20%), which is the 
rate that was substantively enacted to apply from 2 July 
2013. The impact of the change in the tax rate in 2013 from 
23% to 20% was £6 million.

The deferred tax balance associated with the pension deficit 
has been adjusted to reflect the current tax benefit obtained 
in the current year following the employer contributions 
of £103 million, including deficit contributions of £91 
million, to the Group’s defined benefit pension scheme. The 
adjustment in equity to the deferred tax balance primarily 
relates to the actuarial gains recognised in the period. 

A deferred tax asset of £444 million (2013: £446 million) 
in respect of capital losses of £2,221 million (2013: £2,230 
million) has not been recognised due to uncertainties as 
to the amount and whether a capital gain will arise in the 
appropriate form and relevant territory against which such 
losses could be utilised. For the same reasons, deferred tax 
assets in respect of overseas losses of £14 million (2013: £14 
million) that time expire between 2017 and 2026 have not 
been recognised.

124

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Adjusted earnings per share 2014

Details of the adjustments to earnings are as follows:

Ref.

Adjusted
£m

Diluted
£m

Profit for the year attributable 
to equity shareholders of ITV plc
Exceptional items
Profit for the year before 
exceptional items
Amortisation and impairment  
of acquired intangible assets
Adjustments to net financing 
costs
Other tax adjustments
Adjusted profit
Total weighted average number of 
ordinary shares in issue – million
Adjusted earnings per  
ordinary share

B

C

D
E
F

Earnings per share 2013

Ref.

Profit for the year attributable 
to equity shareholders of ITV plc 
Weighted average number of 
ordinary shares in issue – million
Dilution due to share options
Dilution due to convertible bond
Total weighted average number of 
ordinary shares in issue – million
Earnings per ordinary share

A

Adjusted earnings per share 2013

466
5

471

44

34
5
554

466
5

471

44

34
5
554

4,002

4,040

13.8

13.7

Basic
£m

326

3,929
–
–

3,929
8.3p

Diluted
£m

331

3,929
46
136

4,111
8.1p

Ref.

Adjusted
£m

Diluted
£m

Profit for the year attributable 
to equity shareholders of ITV plc
Exceptional items
Profit for the year before 
exceptional items
Amortisation and impairment of 
acquired intangible assets
Adjustments to net financing 
costs
Other tax adjustments
Adjusted profit
Total weighted average number of 
ordinary shares in issue – million
Adjusted earnings per ordinary 
share

B

C

D
E
F

326
1

327

42

69
3
441

331
1

332

42

69
3
446

3,929

4,111

11.2p

10.8p

Read more on our rationale for determining the adjustments to 
profit in the Financial and Performance Review on page 46.

A. The Group dilutes EPS for the impact of any share options 
and convertible instruments outstanding during the year. 
In the prior year the Group had a convertible Eurobond 
that contributed 136 million shares on a weighted average 
basis when determining diluted EPS. In October 2013 the 
Group repurchased 55% of the 2016 convertible Eurobond 
and settled the remainder for equity. This resulted in an 
additional 95 million new shares being issued.

B. Both operating and non-operating exceptional items 
(detailed in note 2.2) are adjusted to reflect profit for the 
year before exceptional items. A net tax credit of £2 million 
(2013: £1 million credit) is recognised on the total exceptional 
items charge of £7 million (2013: £2 million charge). 

C. Amortisation and impairment of acquired intangible 
assets of £44 million (2013: £42 million) is calculated as 
total amortisation and impairment of £67 million (2013: 
£66 million), less amortisation of software licences and 
development of £11 million (2013: £12 million). A related  
tax credit of £12 million (2013: £12 million) is then recognised 
on the net amount. 

D. Gross adjustments of £44 million (2013: £90 million) have 
been made to net financing costs and relate to mark-to-
market movements on derivative instruments, losses on 
buybacks and imputed pension interest charges (see note 
4.4 for details). This is reduced by a tax credit of £10 million 
(2013: £21 million) to give a net adjustment of £34 million 
(2013: £69 million).

E. Other tax adjustments primarily reflect the cash tax 
benefit received on goodwill arising from the US acquisitions, 
which for tax purposes is amortised over a 15 year period 
(2013: the adjustment reflects the impact on the deferred 
tax charge resulting from a decrease in the statutory tax 
rate from 23% to 20%).

F. Adjusted profit for the year removes the effect of  
exceptional items. These include acquisition related costs 
(professional fees, primarily due diligence, and performance-
based, employment-linked contingent payments), amortisation 
of intangible assets acquired through business combinations, 
net financing costs adjustments and other tax adjustments.

125

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 3: Operating Assets  
and Liabilities

In this section . . . 

This section shows the assets used to generate the Group’s trading performance and the liabilities incurred as a result. 
Liabilities relating to the Group’s financing activities are addressed in Section 4. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are 
shown in note 2.3.

On the following pages there are notes covering working capital, non-current assets and liabilities, acquisitions and 
disposals, provisions and pensions.

3.1 Working capital

The net book value of distribution rights at the year are as 
follows:

Distribution rights

2014
£m
13

2013
£m
10

The movement during the year comprises additions of £21 
million (2013: £16 million) and amounts charged to the 
income statement of £18 million (2013: £23 million).

3.1.2 Programme rights and other inventory 
Accounting policies
Rights are recognised when the Group controls the 
respective rights and the risks and rewards associated  
with them. 

Programme rights and production costs not yet written off 
are included in the statement of financial position at the 
lower of cost and net realisable value. 

Broadcast programme rights
Acquired programme rights (which include films), and 
sports rights, are purchased for the primary purpose of 
broadcasting on the ITV network. These are recognised 
within current assets as payments are made or when the 
rights are ready for broadcast. The Group generally expenses 
these rights through operating costs over a number of 
transmissions reflecting the pattern and value in which the 
right is consumed.

Commissions, which primarily comprise programmes 
purchased based on editorial specification and over which 
the Group has some control, are recognised in current 
assets as payments are made and are generally expensed 
to operating costs in full on first transmission. Where a 
commission is repeated, incremental costs are included in 
operating costs 

Where a repeat of a programme is broadcast, the Group 
recognises the incremental costs associated with the 
broadcast in operating costs.

Keeping it simple . . . 

Working capital represents the assets and liabilities  
the Group generates through its trading activity. The 
Group therefore defines working capital as distribution 
rights, programme rights and production costs, trade 
and other receivables and trade and other payables.

Careful management of working capital ensures  
that the Group can meet its trading and financing 
obligations within its ordinary operating cycle. 

Working capital is a driver of the ‘profit to cash’ 
conversion, a key performance indicator for the Group. 
The Group’s target ‘profit to cash’ ratio on a rolling 
three year basis is at least 90%.

In the following section you will find further 
information regarding working capital management 
and analysis of the elements of working capital.

3.1.1 Distribution rights
Accounting policies
‘Distribution rights’ are programme rights the Group buys 
from producers to derive future revenue, principally through 
licensing to broadcasters. These are classified as non-current 
assets as these rights are used to derive long-term economic 
benefit for the Group.

Distribution rights are recognised initially at cost and 
charged through operating costs in the income statement 
over a maximum five-year period that is dependent on 
either cumulative sales and programme genre, or based on 
forecast future sales. Advances paid for the acquisition of 
distribution rights are disclosed as distribution rights as soon 
as they are contracted. These advances are not expensed 
until the programme is available for distribution. Up to that 
point they are assessed annually for impairment through 
the reassessment of the future sales expected to be earned 
from that title. 

126

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIn assessing net realisable value for acquired and 
commissioned rights, the net realisable value assessment is 
based on estimated airtime value, with consideration given 
to whether the number of transmissions purchased can be 
efficiently played out over the licence period. 

Studios production costs
Production inventory comprises the costs incurred by ITV 
Studios in producing a programme, where the programme 
is part way through the production process and not yet 
available for delivery to a broadcaster. They are recognised 
within current assets at production cost as incurred and are 
recognised in operating costs on delivery of episodes.

Also included here are dramas that have been commissioned 
straight to series. Although more expensive than producing 
a pilot, this method attracts high profile talent to the 
production and raises the profile of the series to support its 
distribution. The production cost is partly funded by network 
pre-sales, while the remainder, the “deficit”, is carried 
internally and covered by future sales. 

In assessing net realisable value for programmes in 
production, judgement is required when considering the 
contracted sales price and estimated costs to complete. 

The programme rights and other inventory at the year end 
are shown in the table below:

Acquired programme rights
Commissions
Sports rights
Production costs

2014
£m
101
57
40
169
367

2013
£m
110
46
57
109
322

Programme rights and other inventory written down in the 
year were £1 million (2013: £1 million). 

3.1.3 Programme commitments
These are operating commitments in respect of 
programming entered into in the ordinary course of business 
with programme suppliers, sports organisations and film 
distributors in respect of rights to broadcast on the ITV 
network. Commitments in respect of these purchases, which 
are not reflected in the statement of financial position, are 
due for payment as follows:

Within one year
Later than one year and not more 
than five years
More than five years

2014
£m
464

462
58
984

2013
£m
444

431
3
878

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

3.1.4 Trade and other receivables
Accounting policies
Trade receivables are recognised initially at the value of 
the invoice sent to the customer and subsequently at the 
amounts considered recoverable (amortised cost). Where 
payments are not due for more than one year, they are 
shown in the financial statements at their net present value 
to reflect the economic cost of delayed payment. The Group 
provides goods and services to substantially all its customers 
on credit terms.

Estimates are used in determining the level of receivables 
that will not, in the opinion of the Directors, be collected. 
These estimates include such factors as historical 
experience, the current state of the UK and overseas 
economies and industry specific factors. A provision for 
impairment of trade receivables is established when there is 
sufficient evidence that the Group will not be able to collect 
all amounts due.

The carrying value of trade receivables is considered to 
approximate fair value.

Trade and other receivables can be analysed as follows:

Due within one year:
  Trade receivables
  Other receivables

 Prepayments and accrued 
income

Due after more than one year:
  Trade receivables 
  Other receivables
Total trade and other receivables

2014
£m

271
27

87
385

7
17
409

2013
£m

295
40

53
388

11
3
402

127

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial Statements 
Section 3: Operating Assets  
and Liabilities continued

Other receivables due after more than one year include  
£11 million (2013: £nil) relating to 2014 acquisitions (see note 
3.4 for details).

3.1.6 Trade payables due after more than one year
Trade payables due after more than one year can be 
analysed as follows:

£278 million (2013: £306 million) of total trade receivables 
that are not impaired are aged as follows:

Trade payables

2014
£m
27

2013
£m
42

This primarily relates to film creditors for which payment is 
due after more than one year.

3.1.7 Working capital management
Cash and working capital management continues to be a 
key focus. During the year the cash outflow from working 
capital was £69 million (2013: outflow of £15 million) derived 
as follows:

Increase in programme rights and 
other inventory and distribution 
rights
Decrease/ (increase) in receivables
(Decrease)/increase in payables
Working capital outflow

2014
£m

2013
£m

(39)
18
(48)
(69)

(42)
(15)
42
(15)

The working capital outflow for the year excludes the impact 
of balances acquired on the purchase of new subsidiaries 
(see note 3.4).

The outflow is largely driven by the increase in production 
inventory as a result of increased investment in scripted 
content, predominantly in the US. 

Read more on our investment in scripted content in the  Financial 
and Performance Review on pages 42 and 43.

Current
Up to 30 days overdue
Between 30 and 90 days overdue
Over 90 days overdue

2014
£m
263
7
4
4
278

2013
£m
296
8
2
–
306

The balance above is stated net of a provision of £7 million 
(2013: £7 million) for impairment of trade receivables. Of 
the provision total, £3 million relates to balances overdue by 
more than 90 days (2013: £3 million) and £4 million relates 
to current balances (2013: £4 million). 

Movements in the Group’s provision for impairment of trade 
receivables can be shown as follows:

At 1 January
Charged during the year
Receivables written off during the 
year as uncollectable (utilisation of 
provision)
Unused amounts reversed
At 31 December

2014
£m
7
2

–
(2)
7

2013
£m
7
1

(1)
–
7

3.1.5 Trade and other payables due within one year
Accounting policies
Trade payables are recognised at the value of the invoice 
received from a supplier.

The carrying value of trade payables is considered to 
approximate fair value.

Trade and other payables due within one year can be 
analysed as follows:

Trade payables
VAT and social security
Other payables
Accruals and deferred income

2014
£m
49
68
159
423
699

2013
£m
43
67
156
436
702

128

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

3.2 Property, plant and equipment

Keeping it simple . . . 

The following section shows the physical assets used  
by the Group to operate the business, generating 
revenues and profits. These assets include office 
buildings and studios, as well as equipment used in 
broadcast transmission, programme production and 
support activities.

The cost of these assets is the amount initially paid 
for them. A depreciation expense is charged to the 
income statement to reflect annual wear and tear and 
the reduced value of the asset over time. Depreciation 
is calculated by estimating the number of years the 
Group expects the asset to be used (useful economic 
life). If there has been a technological change or 
decline in business performance the Directors review 
the value of the assets to ensure they have not fallen 
below their depreciated value. If an asset’s value falls 
below its depreciated value an additional one-off 
impairment charge is made against profit.

This section also explains the accounting policies 
followed by ITV and the specific estimates made in 
arriving at the net book value of these assets.

Accounting policies
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less 
accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Certain 
items of property, plant and equipment that were revalued 
to fair value prior to 1 January 2004 the date of transition 
to IFRS are measured on the basis of deemed cost, being 
the revalued amount less depreciation up to the date of 
transition.

Leases 
Finance leases are those which transfer substantially all the 
risks and rewards of ownership to the lessee. Certain service 
contracts involve the use of specific assets (e.g. transmission 
or studio equipment) and therefore contain an embedded 
lease. 

Determining whether a lease is a finance lease requires 
judgement as to whether substantially all of the risks and 
benefits of ownership have been transferred to the Group. 
Estimates used by management in making this assessment 
include the useful economic life of assets, the fair value 
of the asset and the discount rate applied to the total 
payments required under the lease. Assets held under such 
leases are included within property, plant and equipment 
and depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated 
useful lives. 

Outstanding finance lease obligations, which comprise 
the principal plus accrued interest, are included within 
borrowings. The finance element of the agreements is 
charged to the income statement over the term of the lease 
on an effective interest basis. 

All other leases are operating leases, the rentals on which 
are charged to the income statement on a straight-line  
basis over the lease term (see note 2.1 for further details  
of operating lease commitments). 

Depreciation
Depreciation is provided to write off the cost of property, 
plant and equipment less estimated residual value, on a 
straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The 
annual depreciation charge is sensitive to the estimated 
useful life of each asset and the expected residual value at 
the end of its life. The major categories of property, plant 
and equipment are depreciated as follows:

Asset class
Freehold land
Freehold buildings
Leasehold improvements

Depreciation policy
not depreciated
up to 60 years
shorter of residual lease 
term or estimated useful life

Vehicles, equipment and fittings1 3 to 20 years

1.  Equipment includes studio production and technology assets.

Impairment of assets
Property, plant and equipment that is subject to 
depreciation is reviewed for impairment whenever events  
or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying 
amount may not be recoverable. Indicators of impairment 
may include changes in technology and business 
performance.

129

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 3: Operating Assets  
and Liabilities continued

Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment can be analysed as follows:

Freehold land 
and buildings

Improvements to leasehold
land and buildings

Vehicles, equipment 
and fittings

Long
£m

Short
£m

Owned
£m

Finance leases
£m

76
24
(32)
1
–
69
–
(2)
–
67

16
1
(7)
1
–
11
2
–
13

54
58

16
1
–
–
–
17
–
–
–
17

15
–
–
–
–
15
–
–
15

2
2

203
23
–
8
(13)
221
26
2
(12)
237

121
22
–
8
(13)
138
24
(12)
150

87
83

16
–
–
–
–
16
–
–
–
16

14
–
–
–
–
14
–
–
14

2
2

Capital commitments
There are £2 million of capital commitments at  
31 December 2014 (2013: £3 million).

Cost
At 1 January 2013
Additions
Reclassification of acquired property
Reclassification from assets held for sale
Disposals and retirements
At 31 December 2013
Additions
Reclassification of property fittings
Disposals and retirements
At 31 December 2014

Depreciation
At 1 January 2013
Charge for the year
Reclassification of acquired property
Reclassification from assets held for sale
Disposals and retirements
At 31 December 2013
Charge for the year
Disposals and retirements
At 31 December 2014
Net book value
At 31 December 2014
At 31 December 2013

£m

14
58
32
33
–
137
–
–
(17)
120

3
1
7
12
–
23
1
(7)
17

103
114

There are additions of £5 million in 2014 relating to 
acquisitions made in the year (2013: £nil).

Included within property, plant and equipment are assets in 
the course of construction of £10 million (2013: £66 million). 
In 2013 this included construction costs in relation to the new 
Coronation Street set, which was completed in early 2014.

During the year, the Group sold a freehold property in Cardiff 
for proceeds of £15 million, representing a gain on sale of £5 
million.

Total

£m

325
106
–
42
(13)
460
26
–
(29)
457

169
24
–
21
(13)
201
27
(19)
209

248
259

130

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial Statements3.3 Intangible assets

Keeping it simple . . . 

The following section shows the non-physical assets 
used by the Group to generate revenue and profits.

These assets include brands, customer contracts and 
relationships, contractual arrangements, licences, 
software development, film libraries and goodwill. 
The cost of these assets is the amount that the 
Group has paid or, where there has been a business 
combination, the fair value of the specific intangible 
assets that could be sold separately or which arise 
from legal rights. In the case of goodwill, its cost is the 
amount the Group has paid in acquiring a business over 
and above the fair value of the individual assets and 
liabilities acquired. The value of goodwill is ‘intangible’ 
value that comes from, for example, a uniquely strong 
market position and the outstanding productivity of 
its employees.

The value of intangible assets, with the exception of  
goodwill, reduces over the number of years the Group 
expects to use the asset, the useful economic life, 
via an annual amortisation charge to the income 
statement. Where there has been a technological 
change or decline in business performance the 
Directors review the value of assets, including 
goodwill, to ensure they have not fallen below their 
amortised value. Should an asset’s value fall below 
its amortised value an additional one-off impairment 
charge is made against profit.

This section explains the accounting policies applied 
and the specific judgements and estimates made by 
the Directors in arriving at the net book value of these 
assets.

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Accounting policies
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the future economic benefits that 
arise from assets that are not capable of being individually 
identified and separately recognised. The goodwill 
recognised by the Group has all arisen as a result of business 
combinations. Goodwill is stated at its recoverable amount 
being cost less any accumulated impairment losses and is 
allocated to the business to which it relates.

Due to changes in accounting standards goodwill has been 
calculated using three different methods depending on the 
date the relevant business was purchased.

Method 1: All business combinations that have occurred 
since 1 January 2009 were accounted for using the 
acquisition method. Under this method, goodwill is 
measured as the fair value of the consideration transferred 
(including the recognition of any part of the business not 
yet owned (non-controlling interests)), less the fair value 
of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, 
all measured at the acquisition date. Any contingent 
consideration expected to be transferred in the future 
will be recognised at fair value at the acquisition date and 
recognised within Other payables. Contingent consideration 
classified as an asset or liability that is a financial instrument 
is measured at fair value with changes in fair value 
recognised in the income statement. The determination 
of fair value is based on discounted cash flows. The key 
assumptions take into consideration the probability of 
meeting each performance target and the discount rate.

Where less than 100% of a subsidiary is acquired, and call 
and put options are granted over the remaining interest, a 
non-controlling interest is initially recognised in equity at 
fair value, which is established based on the value of the put 
option. A call option is recognised as a derivative financial 
instrument, carried at fair value. The put option is recognised 
as a liability within Other payables, carried at the present 
value of the put option exercise price, and a corresponding 
charge is included in Merger and Other Reserves. Any 
subsequent remeasurement of the call option and the put 
option liability is recognised within finance income or cost.

Subsequent adjustments to the fair value of net assets 
acquired can only be made within 12 months of the 
acquisition date, and only if fair values were determined 
provisionally at an earlier reporting date. These adjustments 
are accounted for from the date of acquisition. 

131

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 3: Operating Assets  
and Liabilities continued

Acquisitions of non-controlling interests are accounted for 
as transactions with owners and therefore no goodwill is 
recognised as a result of such transactions. Transaction costs 
incurred in connection with those business combinations, 
such as legal fees, due diligence fees and other professional 
fees, are expensed as incurred.

Method 2: All business combinations that occurred between 
1 January 2004 and 31 December 2008 were accounted 
for using the purchase method in accordance with IFRS 
3 ‘Business Combinations (2004)’. Goodwill on those 
combinations represents the difference between the cost 
of the acquisition and the fair value of the identifiable net 
assets acquired and did not include the value of the non-
controlling interest. Transaction costs incurred in connection 
with those business combinations, such as legal fees, due 
diligence fees and other professional fees, were included in 
the cost of acquisition.

Method 3: For business combinations prior to 1 January 
2004, goodwill is included at its deemed cost, which 
represents the amount recorded under UK GAAP at that 
time less accumulated amortisation up to 31 December 
2003. The classification and accounting treatment of 
business combinations occurring prior to 1 January 2004, 
the date of transition to IFRS, has not been reconsidered as 
permitted under IFRS 1. 

Other intangible assets
Intangible assets other than goodwill are those which are 
identifiable and can be sold separately or which arise from 
legal rights.

Within ITV there are two types of intangible assets: those 
acquired and those that have been internally generated 
(such as software licences and development).

Intangible assets acquired directly by the Group are stated 
at cost less accumulated amortisation. Those separately 
identified intangible assets acquired as part of a business 
combination are shown at fair value at the date of 
acquisition less accumulated amortisation.

The main intangible assets the Group has valued are brands, 
licences, contractual arrangements, customer contracts and 
relationships and libraries.

Each class of intangible asset’s valuation method on initial 
recognition, amortisation method and estimated useful life 
is set out in the table below:

Class of intangible asset
Brands

Customer contracts 
and relationships

Contractual 
arrangements

Licences

Libraries and other

Valuation method
Applying a royalty rate to the expected future revenue  
over the life of the brand.
Expected future cash flows from those contracts and 
relationships existing at the date of acquisition are  
estimated. If applicable, a contributory charge is 
deducted for the use of other assets needed to exploit 
the cash flow. The net cash flow is then discounted back 
to present value.
Expected future cash flows from those contracts existing 
at the date of acquisition are estimated. If applicable, 
a contributory charge is deducted for the use of other 
assets needed to exploit the cash flow. The net cash flow 
is then discounted back to present value.
Start-up basis of expected future cash flows existing at  
the date of acquisition. If applicable, a contributory  
charge is deducted for the use of other assets needed 
to exploit the cash flow. The net cash flow is then 
discounted back to present value.
Initially at cost and subsequently at cost less  
accumulated amortisation.

Software licences 
and development

Initially at cost and subsequently at cost less  
accumulated amortisation.

Amortisation method
Straight-line

Estimated useful life
up to 14 years

Straight-line
or reducing balance  
as appropriate

up to 6 years for 
customer contracts 

Straight-line

5 to 10 years 
for customer 
relationships
up to 10 years 
depending on the 
contract terms

Straight-line

11 to 17 years 
depending on term  
of licence

Sum of digits or 
straight line as 
appropriate
Straight-line

up to 20 years

1 to 5 years

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sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Determining the fair value of intangible assets arising 
on acquisition requires judgement. The Directors make 
estimates regarding the timing and amount of future cash 
flows derived from exploiting the assets being acquired. 
The Directors then estimate an appropriate discount rate 
to apply to the forecast cash flows. Such estimates are 
based on current budgets and forecasts, extrapolated for 
an appropriate period taking into account growth rates, 
operating costs and the expected useful lives of assets. 
Judgements are also made regarding whether, and for how 
long, licences will be renewed; this drives our amortisation 
policy for those assets.

The Directors estimate the appropriate discount rate using 
pre-tax rates that reflect current market assessments of the 
time value of money and the risks specific to the assets or 
businesses being acquired.

Amortisation
Amortisation is charged to the income statement over the 
estimated useful lives of intangible assets unless such lives 
are judged to be indefinite. Indefinite life assets, such as 
goodwill, are not amortised but are tested for impairment  
at each year end.

Impairment
Goodwill is not subject to amortisation and is tested 
annually for impairment and when circumstances indicate 
that the carrying value may be impaired.

Other intangible assets are subject to amortisation and 
are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes 
in circumstances indicate that the amount carried in the 
statement of financial position is less than its recoverable 
amount.

Determining whether the carrying amount of intangible 
assets has any indication of impairment requires judgement. 
Any impairment is recognised in the income statement.

An impairment test is performed by assessing the 
recoverable amount of each asset, or for goodwill, the cash-
generating unit (or group of cash-generating units) related 
to the goodwill. Total assets (which includes goodwill) are 
grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately 
identifiable cash flows (‘cash-generating unit’ or ‘CGU’).

The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value 
less costs to sell and ‘value in use’. The value in use is based 
on the present value of the future cash flows expected to 
arise from the asset. 

The Group applies cautious assumptions for impairment 
testing. Estimates are used in deriving these cash flows and 
the discount rate. Such estimates reflect current market 
assessments of the risks specific to the asset and the time 
value of money. The estimation process is complex due to 
the inherent risks and uncertainties. If different estimates 
of the projected future cash flows or a different selection of 
an appropriate discount rate or long-term growth rate were 
made, these changes could materially alter the projected 
value of the cash flows of the asset, and as a consequence 
materially different amounts would be reported in the 
financial statements.

Impairment losses in respect of goodwill are not reversed.  
In respect of assets other than goodwill, an impairment loss 
is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used 
to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss is 
reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount 
does not exceed the carrying amount that would have 
been determined, net of depreciation or amortisation, if no 
impairment loss had been recognised.

133

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and Liabilities continued

Intangible assets
Intangible assets can be analysed as follows:

Cost
At 1 January 2013
Additions 
Foreign exchange
At 31 December 2013
Additions
Foreign exchange
At 31 December 2014
Amortisation and impairment
At 1 January 2013
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2013
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2014
Net book value
At 31 December 2014
At 31 December 2013

Customer 
contracts 
and 
relationships
£m

Contractual
arrangements
£m

Licences
£m

Libraries 
and other
£m

Software 
licences and 
development
£m

Goodwill
£m

Brands
£m

3,411
58
(2)
3,467
146
14
3,627

2,654
–
2,654
–
2,654

973
813

175
4
–
179
21
1
201

143
16
159
18
177

24
20

332
20
–
352
30
3
385

306
20
326
21
347

38
26

10
–
–
10
–
–
10

–
2
2
3
5

5
8

121
–
–
121
–
–
121

74
9
83
7
90

31
38

79
2
–
81
16
–
97

43
7
50
7
57

40
31

78
–
–
78
11
–
89

48
12
60
11
71

18
18

Total
£m

4,206
84
(2)
4,288
224
18
4,530

3,268
66
3,334
67
3,401

1,129
954

All intangible asset additions in the year, excluding software, 
are due to the acquisition of three production companies, 
as detailed in note 3.4 (2013: four production companies 
acquired). 

Goodwill impairment tests
The following CGUs represent the carrying amounts of 
goodwill:

Broadcast & Online
SDN
ITV Studios

2014
£m
342
76
555
973

2013
£m
342
76
395
813

There has been no impairment charge for the year (2013: 
£nil).

When assessing impairment, the recoverable amount 
of each CGU is based on value in use calculations. These 
calculations require the use of estimates, specifically: pre-tax 
cash flow projections; long-term growth rates; and a pre-tax 
market discount rate. 

Cash flow projections are based on the Group’s current five 
year plan. Beyond the five year plan these projections are 
extrapolated using an estimated long-term growth rate of 
2% (2013: 2%). The growth rate used is consistent with the 
long-term average growth rates for both the industry and 
the country in which they are located and is appropriate 
because these are long-term businesses.

The discount rate has been revised for each CGU to reflect 
the latest market assumptions for the Risk-Free rate, the 
Equity Risk Premium and the net cost of debt. There is 
currently no reasonably possible change in discount rate  
that would reduce the headroom in any CGU to zero.

Broadcast & Online
The goodwill in this CGU arose as a result of the acquisition 
of broadcasting businesses since 1999, the largest of which 
was the merger of Carlton and Granada in 2004 to form 
ITV plc, which was treated as an acquisition of Carlton for 
accounting purposes.

No impairment charge arose in the Broadcast & Online CGU 
during the course of 2014 (2013: £nil). 

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sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsThe main assumptions on which the forecast cash flow 
projections for this CGU are based include: the share of the 
television advertising market; share of commercial impacts; 
programme and other costs; and the pre-tax market 
discount rate.

The key assumption in assessing the recoverable amount 
of Broadcast & Online goodwill is the size of the television 
advertising market. In forming its assumptions about 
the television advertising market, the Group has used a 
combination of long-term trends, industry forecasts and 
in-house estimates, which place greater emphasis on recent 
experience. The latest range of forecasts for the advertising 
market is 2-5% for 2015. No impairment was identified. Also 
as part of the review, a sensitivity of up to -10% was applied 
to 2015 for the purposes of the impairment test, again with  
no impairment identified.

A pre-tax market discount rate of 10.6% (2013: 11.3%) has 
been used in discounting the projected cash flows.

The Directors believe that currently no reasonably possible 
change in these assumptions would reduce the headroom in 
this CGU to zero.

SDN
Goodwill was recognised when the Group acquired SDN (the 
licence operator for DTT Multiplex A) in 2005. It represented 
the wider strategic benefits of the acquisition specific to the 
Group, principally the enhanced ability to promote Freeview 
as a platform, business relationships with the channels 
which are on Multiplex A and additional capacity available 
from 2010.

No impairment charge arose on the SDN goodwill during the 
course of 2014 (2013: £nil).

The main assumptions on which the forecast cash flows 
are based are: income to be earned from medium-term 
contracts; the market price of available multiplex video 
streams in the period up to and beyond digital switchover; 
and the pre-tax market discount rate. These assumptions 
have been determined by using a combination of current 
contract terms, recent market transactions and in-house 
estimates of video stream availability and pricing. 

A pre-tax market discount rate of 12.6% (2013: 13.1%) has 
been used in discounting the projected cash flows.

The Directors believe that currently no reasonably possible 
change in the income and availability assumptions would 
reduce the headroom in this CGU to zero.

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

ITV Studios
The goodwill for ITV Studios has arisen as a result of the 
acquisition of production businesses since 1999. Significant 
balances were created from the acquisition by Granada of 
United News and Media’s production businesses in 2000 and 
the merger of Granada and Carlton in 2004 to form ITV plc. 
ITV Studios goodwill also includes all of the goodwill arising 
from recent acquisitions in 2012 to 2014, with the largest 
addition being Leftfield in 2014.

No impairment charge arose in the ITV Studios CGU during 
the course of 2014 (2013: £nil).

The key assumptions on which the forecast cash flows were 
based include revenue (including international revenue and 
the ITV Studios share of ITV output, growth in commissions 
and hours produced), margin growth and the pre-tax market 
discount rate. These assumptions have been determined 
by using a combination of extrapolation of historical trends 
within the business, industry estimates and in-house 
estimates of growth rates in all markets. 

A pre-tax market discount rate of 11.7% (2013: 12.2%) has 
been used in discounting the projected cash flows.

The Directors believe that currently no reasonably possible 
change in the income and availability assumptions would 
reduce the headroom in this CGU to zero.

Following the acquisitions made by ITV Studios in 2014, the 
Directors considered how assets and resources are shared 
across the Studios division and the level of integration within 
the management structure for the purposes of reporting 
and strategic decision-making. They concluded that a single 
Studios CGU continues to remain appropriate.

135

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and Liabilities continued

The acquisition of Leftfield makes ITV the largest unscripted 
independent producer in the US and represents a significant 
contribution to the Group’s  strategy of building a strong 
international content business, particularly in the US. Its New 
York base gives ITV Studios a significant presence on both 
the east and west coasts and strengthens and complements 
our existing creative capability.

Key terms
Cash consideration of £214 million ($360 million) was paid at 
acquisition and the maximum total consideration for 100% 
of the business, including the initial payment, is £496 million 
($800 million, undiscounted). The remaining consideration 
of up to £282 million ($440 million) will be assessed at two 
stages in the next five years, and the full amount will only be 
due should Leftfield deliver exceptional earnings growth. 

There is a two way adjustment mechanism used at the first 
stage which will result in a payment or receivable in 2016 
and is based on average performance across 2014 and 
2015 against stretching growth earnings targets. Up to £69 
million ($107 million, undiscounted maximum) would be 
payable to the seller where the business outperforms the 
performance target. If the minimum threshold performance 
targets are not met, the Group would be entitled to receive 
a performance adjustment of up to £30 million ($50 
million, undiscounted). The adjustment is accounted for as 
contingent consideration. 

The second stage payment comes in the form of a call and 
put option that has been granted over the remaining 20% 
non-controlling interest. The call option is first exercisable 
in the first half of 2017 and then again following expiry 
of the vendors’ put option, which is exercisable in 2019. 
The maximum amount that the Group could pay for the 
remaining 20% equity interest is the residual of the £282 
million less any amounts paid in 2016 ($440 million in total, 
undiscounted). Final payment will be entirely dependent on 
future performance of the business, which would need to be 
exceptional for the maximum to be achieved.

There are also call and put options over the non-controlling 
interests of Leftfield’s two start-up operations that are 
exercisable in 2019. The final payout is dependent on 
future performance over the next five years and is linked to 
ongoing employment. The maximum consideration payable 
by the Group is £8 million ($13 million, undiscounted).

3.4 Acquisitions

Keeping it simple . . . 

The following section outlines what the Group has 
acquired in the year. 

All of the deals are structured so that a large part of 
the payment made to the sellers is determined based 
on future performance (‘consideration’).  This is done 
so that the Group can both align incentives for growth, 
while reducing risk so that total consideration reflects 
actual performance, not expected. 

IFRS accounting standards require some of this 
consideration to be included in the purchase 
price used in determining goodwill (‘contingent 
consideration’). Examples of contingent consideration 
include top-up payments and recoupable performance 
adjustments. Any remaining consideration is required 
to be recognised as a liability or expense outside 
of acquisition accounting (put option liabilities and 
employment-linked contingent payments known as 
‘earnout’ payments).

The Group considers the income statement impact 
of all consideration to be capital in nature and are 
therefore excluded from adjusted profit.

Therefore, for each acquisition below, the distinction 
between the types of consideration has been 
explained in detail.

Read more on how each of these businesses plays an 
important role in helping the Group execute its strategy in 
the Financial and Performance Review on page 44.

Acquisitions
During 2014 the Group completed three acquisitions, all 
of which have been included in the results of the Studios 
operating segment. Each of the businesses fit with the 
strategy of growing the Group’s international content 
business and to work with other parts of the Studios 
segment to exploit that content globally. The following 
sections provide a summary of each.

Leftfield Entertainment Group
On 7 May the Group acquired 80% of the membership 
interests in New York-based producer Leftfield 
Entertainment Group (‘Leftfield’). Leftfield owns Sirens 
Media and has established two start-up operations: Loud 
Television and Outpost Entertainment. Together these 
businesses produce unscripted programming for over 30  
US networks.

136

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsAcquisition accounting
The Group consolidates all of the earnings of the business 
and the vendors’ remaining interest is recognised as a non-
controlling interest in equity.

Intangibles, being the value placed on brands, customer 
contracts, non-compete arrangements and libraries, of 
£65 million ($109 million) were identified. Other fair value 
adjustments have been made to the opening balance sheet, 
though none of them are individually significant.

Goodwill represents the value placed on the opportunity to 
expand the Group’s creative pipeline in the United States  
and exploiting that offering internationally. It also reflects 
the value of the assembled workforce of creative talent who 
will develop that content. The amortisation of goodwill is 
expected to be deductible for tax purposes. 

Based on the Group’s projections at acquisition, which 
were adjusted as part of the finalisation of the acquisition 
accounting, a revision of £41 million was made to goodwill 
and reflects the performance adjustment and fair value of 
the non-controlling interest. The expected value of the put 
option at the date of acquisition was £18 million ($30 million, 
discounted). 

At the year end, the Group has shown the gross put option 
liability of £21 million, net of the performance adjustment 
receivable of £32 million, on the Statement of Financial 
Position.

Any future changes in the fair value of the put option liability 
or performance adjustment arising from a  reassessment 
of projections will be reported within financing costs on the 
income statement, and excluded from adjusted profit. 

Other acquisitions
The Group made an initial payment of £6 million for two 
smaller acquisitions in the period with a view that these 
acquisitions will strengthen and complement ITV’s existing 
position as a producer for major television networks in both 
the US and the Nordics.

On 14 February 2014, the Group acquired 51% of the 
membership interest in DiGa Vision, a US-based producer 
that specialises in reality and scripted programming. The 
Group consolidates all the earnings of this business and the 
vendors’ remaining interest will be recognised as a non-
controlling interest in equity. A call and put option has been 
granted over the 49% non-controlling interest, with the 
put and call options both being exercisable over three to six 
years. The maximum additional consideration that the Group 
could pay for the remaining interest is £28 million ($42 
million, undiscounted).

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

On 27 February 2014, the Group acquired 100% of United 
Productions, a company based in Denmark specialising in 
factual, entertainment and reality programmes. Contingent 
consideration includes a performance-based payment of 
£1 million (maximum £3 million, undiscounted) due to be 
paid in 2018 and an earnout payment capped at £1 million 
(undiscounted).

Key contractual arrangements of £2 million were identified 
across the two acquisitions and goodwill, which represents 
the value placed on the opportunity to grow the content 
produced by the Group, has been provisionally valued at  
£7 million. The goodwill amortisation attributable to DiGa is 
expected to be deductible for US tax purposes.

Acquisitions in 2013
In 2013 the Group made four acquisitions. Two were  
US producers High Noon and Thinkfactory, where total  
initial consideration (net of £4 million of cash acquired) of 
£31 million was paid for 60% and 65% membership interests 
respectively. Call and put options were granted over the non-
controlling interest and the discounted put option liability 
at the acquisition date totalled £13 million. The maximum 
consideration which the Group could pay for the remaining 
interest across both businesses is £93 million ($144 million, 
undiscounted). Final payment will be entirely dependent on 
future performance of the business. 

A 100% equity interest was acquired in UK-based producers 
The Garden and Big Talk, for total initial consideration (net 
of £6 million of cash acquired) of £25 million. The maximum 
additional amount payable is £45 million (undiscounted), and 
is being accounted for as an earnout payment. 

Intangibles of £26 million were identified, largely reflecting 
the value placed on brands, customer contracts and 
contractual arrangements.

137

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and Liabilities continued

Effect of acquisition
The acquisitions noted above had the following impact on the Group assets and liabilities:

£m

Consideration transferred:
Initial consideration (net of cash acquired) (Note A)
Contingent consideration (Note B)
Total consideration 

Fair value of net assets acquired:
Property, plant and equipment 
Intangible assets
Trade and other receivables
Trade and other payables
Fair value of net assets
Non-controlling interest measured at fair value (Note C)
Goodwill

Other information:
Present value at acquisition of the liability on options
Present value at acquisition of the earnout payment

Contributions to the Group’s performance:
Revenue – acquisition to date
Profit after tax – acquisition to date
Revenue – January to December
Profit after tax – January to December

Leftfield

Other

209
(30)
179

5
65
30
(42)
58
18
139

18
2

57
14
83
20

5
1
6

–
2
2
(3)
1
2
7

2
2

5
–
5
–

2014 
Total

214
(29)
185

5
67
32
(45)
59
20
146

20
4

62
14
88
20

2013 
Total 

56
6
62

–
26
32
(41)
17
13
58

13
15

61
3
96
6

Note A: Cash of £5 million was acquired with Leftfield and £1 million with DiGa. 
Note B: At year end the Leftfield contingent consideration was valued at £32 million due to currency translation (see note 4.5)
Note C:  Non-controlling interest arises where the Group acquires less than 100% of the equity interest in a business, but obtains control. 

138

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Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

3.5 Investments

Keeping it simple . . .

The Group holds minority interests in a number of 
different entities. Accounting for these investments, 
and the Group’s share of any profits and losses, 
depends on the level of control or influence the 
Group is granted via its interest. The three principal 
types of non-consolidated investments are: joint 
arrangements ( joint ventures or joint operations), 
associates and fixed asset investments. A joint venture 
is an investment where the Group has joint control, 
with one or more third parties. An associate is an 
entity over which the Group has significant influence 
(i.e. power to participate in the investee’s financial and 
operating decisions). Any other investment is a fixed 
asset investment.

Accounting policies
For joint ventures and associates the Group applies equity 
accounting. Under this method, it recognises the investment 
in the entity at cost and subsequently adjusts this for its 
share of profits or losses, which are recognised in the income 
statement within non-operating items and included in 
adjusted profit.  For fixed asset investments no share of 
profits or losses are recognised. 

The carrying value of all investments are shown as non-
current assets on the Statement of Financial Position. 
The £10 million increase in the year comprises £7 million 
in relation to the acquisition of associates and fixed asset 
investments and £3 million of funding to existing joint 
ventures. 

Principal investments 
The Company indirectly held at 31 December 2014 the 
following holdings in significant joint ventures, associates 
and investments:

Interest in 
ordinary 
share capital 
2014
%

Interest in 
ordinary 
share capital 
2013

%  

50.0
50.0

40.0
25.0
–
–

–
–

50.0
50.0

40.0
25.0
–
–

–
–

Name

Joint ventures

Freesat (UK) Limited
Digital 3 & 4 Limited
Associates
Independent Television News (ITN) 
Limited 
Mammoth Screen Limited 
Tomorrow ITV Studios 1
Indigenous Media 2
Fixed asset investments
Believe Entertainment 3
Zealot Networks 4

14.7% preferred interest.

1.  25% preferred interest.
2. 
3.  5.2% preferred interest
4.  6% preferred interest.

Principal activity

Provision of a standard and high definition enabled 
digital satellite proposition
Operates the Channel 3 & 4 digital terrestrial multiplex

Supply of news services to broadcasters in the UK 
and elsewhere
Production of scripted content
Production of scripted content
Production of content for digital distribution

Production of content for digital distribution
Digital-first media company

139

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Section 3: Operating Assets  
and Liabilities continued

3.6 Provisions

Keeping it simple . . . 

A provision is recognised by the Group where an 
obligation exists relating to events in the past and it  
is probable that cash will be paid to settle it.

A provision is made where the Group is not certain 
how much cash will be required to settle a liability, so 
an estimate is required. The main estimates relate to 
the cost of holding properties that are no longer in 
use by the Group, the likelihood of settling legal claims 
and contracts the Group has entered into that are now 
unprofitable.

Accounting policies
A provision is recognised in the statement of financial 
position when the Group has a present legal or constructive 
obligation arising from past events, it is probable cash 
will be paid to settle it and the amount can be estimated 
reliably. Provisions are determined by discounting the 
expected future cash flows by a rate that reflects current 
market assessments of the time value of money and the 
risks specific to the liability. The unwinding of the discount is 
recognised as a financing cost in the income statement. The 
value of the provision is determined based on assumptions 
and estimates in relation to the amount and timing of actual 
cash flows which are dependent on future events.

Provisions
The movements in provisions during the year are as follows:

Contract 
provisions
£m
7
(4)

Restruc-
turing 
provisions
£m
1
(1)

Property 
provisions
£m
4
(1)

Other 
provisions
£m
15
–

Total
£m
27
(6)

3

–

3

15

21

At 1 January 2014
Utilised
At 31 December 
2014

Provisions of £17 million are classified as current liabilities (2013: 
£19 million). Unwind of the discount is £nil in 2014 and 2013.

Contract provisions comprise onerous sports rights 
commitments that are expected to be utilised over the 
remaining contract period and onerous commitments on 
transmission infrastructure.

Property provisions principally relate to onerous lease 
contracts due to empty space created by the ongoing 
review and rationalisation of the Group’s property portfolio. 
Utilisation of the provision will be over the anticipated life of 
the leases or earlier if exited.

140

Other provisions of £15 million primarily relate to potential 
liabilities that may arise as a result of Boxclever having been 
placed into administrative receivership, most of which relate 
to pension arrangements. In 2011 the Determinations Panel 
of The Pensions Regulator determined that Financial Support 
Directions (‘FSDs’) should be issued against certain companies 
within the Group in relation to the Boxclever pension scheme. 
The Group immediately referred this decision to the Upper 
Tribunal (thereby effectively appealing it). An FSD would 
require the Company to put in place financial support for the 
Boxclever scheme; however, it cannot be issued during the 
period of the reference. The reference process is ongoing and 
aside from procedural issues there were no substantive case 
developments in the period. The Directors have obtained 
leading counsel’s opinion and extensive legal advice in 
connection with the proceedings and continue to believe  
that the provision held is appropriate.

3.7 Pensions

Keeping it simple . . .

Historically, the Group offered its employees the 
opportunity to participate in a number of defined 
benefit schemes, but these (collectively referred to as 
‘the Scheme’) closed to new members in 2006. Since 
then a defined contribution pension scheme has been 
made available to all new employees and, where taken 
up, the Group makes fixed payments into a separate 
fund on their behalf, and has no further obligation. The 
risks and rewards associated with this type of scheme 
are assumed by the members rather than the Group. 
It is the members’ responsibility to make investment 
decisions relating to their retirement benefits.

In this note we explain the accounting policies 
governing the Group’s pension schemes, followed by 
analysis of the components of the net defined benefit 
pension deficit, including assumptions made, and 
where the related movements have been recognised 
in the financial statements. In addition, we have 
placed text boxes to explain some of the technical 
terms used in the disclosure. 

Accounting policies
Defined contribution scheme
Obligations under the Group’s defined contribution schemes 
are recognised as an operating cost in the income statement 
as incurred. For 2014, total contributions expensed were  
£14 million (2013: £8 million).

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsDefined benefit scheme
The Group’s obligation in respect of the Scheme is calculated 
by estimating the amount of future benefit that employees 
have earned in return for their service in the current and 
prior periods. That benefit is discounted to determine its 
present value and the fair value of scheme assets is then 
deducted. The discount rate used is the yield at the valuation 
date on high quality corporate bonds of a similar duration to 
the timing of the future expected benefit payments. 

The liabilities of the Scheme are measured by discounting 
the best estimate of future cash flows to be paid using the 
projected unit method. This method is an accrued benefits 
valuation method that makes allowance for projected earnings. 
These calculations are performed by a qualified actuary. 

Actuarial gains and losses are recognised in full in the period 
in which they arise through the statement of comprehensive 
income. 

Defined benefit schemes

Keeping it simple . . .

In a defined benefit scheme, members receive cash 
payments during retirement, the value of which 
is dependent on factors such as salary and length 
of service. The Group manages the necessary 
investment, mortality and inflation risks in order 
to meet these obligations. In the event of poor 
returns the Group needs to address this through a 
combination of increased levels of contribution or 
by making adjustments to the Scheme. Schemes 
can be funded, where regular cash contributions are 
made by the employer into a fund which is invested, 
or unfunded, where no regular money or assets are 
required to be put aside to cover future payments.

The Group makes contributions to the Scheme, 
a separate trustee-administered fund that is not 
consolidated in these financial statements, but is 
reflected on the defined benefit pension deficit line 
on the consolidated statement of financial position. 
It is the responsibility of the Trustee to manage 
and invest the assets of the Scheme and its funding 
position. The Trustee, appointed according to the 
terms of the Scheme’s documentation, is required 
to act in the best interest of the members and is 
responsible for managing and investing the assets of 
the Scheme and its funding position.

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

The level of retirement benefit for the Scheme is principally 
based on pensionable salary at retirement. The latest 
triennial valuation of the Scheme was undertaken as at  
1 January 2011 by an independent actuary appointed by the 
Trustee of the Scheme and agreed in 2012. The next triennial 
valuation will be as at 1 January 2014 and is expected to be 
agreed in 2015. This will drive subsequent contribution rates.

An unfunded scheme in relation to previous Directors is 
accounted for under IAS 19 and the Group is responsible 
for meeting the pension obligations as they fall due. It is 
securitised by assets held outside of the ITV Pension Scheme 
in the form of gilts and included within cash and cash 
equivalents (see note 4.1).

The defined benefit pension deficit
The net pension deficit at 31 December 2014 was £346 
million (2013: £445 million).

The assets and liabilities of the Scheme are recognised in 
the consolidated statement of financial position and shown 
within non-current liabilities. The totals recognised in the 
current and previous years are: 

Total defined benefit scheme 
obligations
Total defined benefit scheme 
assets
Net pension deficit

2014
£m

2013
£m

(3,687)

(3,315)

3,341
(346)

2,870
(445)

The remaining sections provide further detail of the value of 
the Scheme’s assets and liabilities, how these are accounted 
for and the impact on the income statement.

141

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and Liabilities continued

Total defined benefit scheme obligations

The movement in the present value of the Group’s defined 
benefit obligation is analysed below:

Keeping it simple . . .

The section below describes the key areas that impact 
the defined benefit obligation (the pension scheme 
liabilities) position at the year end. Each area can be 
defined as:
•	 Current service cost – the cost to the Group of 
future benefits earned by members which are 
attributable to the members’ service in the current 
period. This is charged to operating costs in the 
income statement.

•	 Interest cost – future pension obligations are stated 
in present value, and therefore a discount factor 
is used to state the current worth of a future cost. 
This interest cost is the unwinding of the discount 
on the present value of the obligation. Broadly, it 
is determined by multiplying the discount rate at 
the beginning of the period by the present value of 
the obligation during the period. This is recognised 
through net financing costs in the income 
statement (see note 4.4).

•	 Actuarial gains or losses – arise from differences 
between the actual and expected outcome in the 
valuation of the obligation. These can be experience 
adjustments, which are differences between the 
assumptions made and what actually occurred, or 
they can result from changes in assumptions, such 
as movements in high quality corporate bond rates. 
Actuarial gains or losses are recognised through 
other comprehensive income.

•	 Benefits paid – any cash benefits paid out by the 

Scheme will reduce the obligation.

At 1 January
Current service cost
Interest cost
Actuarial loss
Benefits paid
At 31 December

2014
£m
3,315
7
144
366
(145)
3,687

2013
£m
3,244
8
133
70
(140)
3,315

Of the above total defined benefit obligation at  
31 December 2014, £48 million relates to unfunded schemes 
(2013: £44 million). See note 4.1 for details.

Assumptions

Keeping it simple . . .

Assumptions used to calculate the best estimate of 
future cash flows to be paid out by the Scheme include: 
future salary levels, future pensionable salary levels, 
an estimate of increases in pension payments, the life 
expectancy of members, the effect of inflation on all 
these factors and ultimately the discount rate used to 
estimate the present day fair value of these obligations. 

IFRS requires that we estimate a discount rate by 
reference to high quality fixed income investments in 
the UK that match the estimated term of the pension 
obligations. The discount rate has therefore been 
obtained using the yields available on AA rated corporate 
bonds over a term of 15 years (2013: 15 years), which is the 
Group’s estimate of the weighted average term of the 
liabilities.

The inflation assumption has been set by looking at the 
difference between the yields on fixed and index-linked 
Government bonds. The inflation assumption is used as 
a basis for the remaining financial assumptions, except 
where caps have been implemented. 

The Group takes independent actuarial advice relating 
to the appropriateness of the assumptions used. It is 
important to note that comparatively small changes 
in the assumptions used may have a significant effect 
on the consolidated income statement and statement 
of financial position.

142

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsThe principal assumptions used in the Scheme’s valuations at the year end were:

Discount rate for:
  Past service liabilities
  Future service liabilities
Inflation assumption for:
  Past service liabilities
  Future service liabilities
Rate of pensionable salary increases
Rate of increase in pension payment (LPI1 5% pension increases)
Rate of increase to deferred pensions (CPI)

1.  Limited Price Index

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

2014 

2013

3.50%
3.70%

3.00%
3.05%
0.9%
2.90%
2.00%

4.45%
4.60%

3.35%
3.40%
0.9%
3.25%
2.35%

Both the discount rate and the inflation assumption have been selected by reference to yield curves with terms and cash 
flow weightings consistent with the pension obligations. 

The table below reflects published mortality investigation data in conjunction with the results of investigations into the 
mortality experience of Scheme members. The assumed life expectations on retirement are:

Retiring today at age
Males
Females
Retiring in 20 years at age
Males
Females

2014
60
27.9
30.5
60
29.9
32.5

2014
65
23.1
25.6
65
24.9
27.5

2013
60
27.8
30.4
60
29.8
32.4

2013
65
23.0
25.5
65
24.8
27.4

The sensitivities regarding the principal assumptions used to measure the defined benefit obligation are set out below:

Assumption
Discount rate

Change in assumption
Increase/decrease by 0.5%

Rate of inflation (Retail Price Index)
Rate of inflation (Consumer Price Index)
Life expectations

Increase/decrease by 0.5%
Increase/decrease by 0.5%
Increase by one year

Impact on defined benefit obligation
Decrease/increase by £270 million / £310 
million
Increase/decrease by £100 million / £90 million
Increase/decrease by £50 million / £40 million
Increase by £100 million

The sensitivities above consider the impact of the single change shown with the other assumptions unchanged. The inflation 
sensitivities allow for the consequential impact on the relevant pension increase assumptions. The sensitivity analyses have 
been determined by extrapolating the impact on the defined benefit obligation of reasonable changes in key assumptions 
occurring at the end of the reporting period.

In practice, changes in one assumption may be accompanied by offsetting changes in another assumption (although this 
is not always the case). Changes in the assumptions may occur at the same time as changes in the market value of scheme 
assets, which may or may not offset the changes in assumptions.

The sensitivity for life expectations excludes the longevity swap (see the following ‘Keeping it Simple’ box for the definition). 
It is estimated that a £75 million benefit would arise on the value of the longevity swap from a one year increase in the 
market-based assumption of mortality. 

143

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and Liabilities continued

Total defined benefit scheme assets

Keeping it simple . . .

The Scheme holds assets across a number of different classes which are managed by the Trustee, who consults with 
the Group on changes to its investment policy. Financial instruments are in place in order to provide protection against 
changes in market factors (interest rates and inflation) which could act to increase the pension deficit. 

One such instrument is the longevity swap which the Scheme transacted in 2011 to obtain protection against the 
effect of increases in the life expectation of the majority of pensioner members at that date. Under the swap, the 
Trustee agreed to make pre-determined payments in return for payments to meet the specified pension obligations 
as they fall due, irrespective of how long the members and their dependants live. The difference in the present values 
of these two streams of payments is reflected in the Scheme assets. The swap has a nil valuation at inception and, 
using market-based assumptions, is subsequently adjusted for changes in the market life expectancy and market 
discount rates.

Defined benefit scheme assets are measured at their fair value and can change due to the following:
•	 Interest income on scheme assets – this is determined by multiplying the fair value of the Scheme assets by the 
discount rate, both taken as of the beginning of the year. This is recognised through net financing costs in the 
income statement.

•	 Return on assets arise from differences between the actual return and interest income on Scheme assets and are 

recognised through other comprehensive income.

•	 Employer’s contributions are paid into the Scheme to be managed and invested.
•	 Benefits and administrative expenses paid out by the Schemes will lower the fair value of the Scheme’s assets.

The movement in the fair value of the defined benefit 
scheme’s assets is analysed below:

Fair value of Scheme assets at  
1 January
Interest income on Scheme assets
Return on assets, excluding  
interest income
Employer contributions
Benefits paid
Administrative expenses paid
Fair value of Scheme assets at  
31 December

2014
£m

2,870
128

390
103
(145)
(5)

2013 
£m

2,693
113

118
91
(140)
(5)

3,341

2,870

Quoted equities
Quoted bonds *
Total quoted assets
Property
Infrastructure
Hedge funds/alternatives
Insurance policies
Cash and cash equivalents
Other
Longevity swap fair value
Total unquoted assets
Total Scheme assets

Market value
2014
£m
654
2,329
2,983
51
77
183
42
50
22
(67)
358
3,341

Market value
2013
£m
747
1,711
2,458
49
65
165
38
110
8
(23)
412
2,870

The actual return on the Scheme’s assets, being the sum 
of the interest income on Scheme assets and return on 
Scheme assets, for the year ended 31 December 2014 was 
an increase of £518 million (2013: increase of £231 million). 

At 31 December 2014 the Scheme’s assets were invested in 
a diversified portfolio that consisted primarily of equity and 
debt securities. The fair value of the Scheme’s assets are 
shown in the following table by major category.

* Quoted bonds include interest rate and inflation swaps.

Included in the above are overseas assets of £1,218 million 
(2013: £872 million), comprised of equities of £569 million 
(2013: £576 million) and bonds of £649 million (2013: £296 
million).

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Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Addressing the net pension deficit

Keeping it simple . . .

The Group works closely with the Trustee to agree 
appropriate levels of funding for the Scheme. This 
involves agreeing a Schedule of Contributions at each 
triennial valuation, setting out the annual deficit 
payments to be made by the Group. A recovery plan 
setting out the steps that would be taken to address a 
funding shortfall is also agreed.

In the event that the Group’s defined benefit scheme 
is in a net liability position, the Directors must take 
steps to manage the size of the deficit. Apart from 
the funding agreements mentioned above, this could 
involve pledging additional assets to the Scheme, as 
was the case in the SDN and London Television Centre 
(‘LTVC’) pension funding partnerships (explained 
below).

The levels of ongoing contributions to the Scheme are based 
on the current service costs (as assessed by the Scheme 
Trustee) and the expected future cash flows of the Scheme. 
Normal employer contributions in 2015 for current service 
are expected to be in the region of £11 million (2014: £10 
million) assuming current contribution rates continue as 
agreed with the Trustee. 

The Group’s deficit funding contributions to Sections A, 
B and C will be reviewed following the result of the 2014 
triennial valuation, expected in Q2 2015. The 2015 deficit 
payments are not expected to exceed those made in 2014.

When selecting the mix of assets to hold, and considering 
their related risks and returns, the Trustee will weigh up the 
variability of returns against the target long-term rate of 
return on the overall portfolio.

Amounts recognised through the income statement
Amounts recognised through the income statement in the 
various captions are as follows:

Amount charged to operating 
costs:
  Current service cost
  Scheme administration expenses

Amount charged to net financing 
costs:
  Net interest on defined benefit 
  obligation

2014
£m

2013 
£m

(7)
(5)
(12)

(8)
(5)
(13)

(16)

(20)

Total charged in the consolidated 
income statement

(28)

(33)

Amounts recognised through the consolidated statement 
of comprehensive income
The amounts recognised through the consolidated 
statement of comprehensive income/(cost) are:

2014
£m

2013 
£m

390

118

Remeasurement gains and (losses):
  Return on scheme assets 
  excluding interest income
  Actuarial losses on liabilities 
  arising from change in:
— demographic assumptions
— financial assumptions
— updated valuation data

Total recognised in the 
consolidated statement of 
comprehensive income

–
(402)
36
(366)

(66)
(4)
–
(70)

Under the SDN pension partnership, set up in 2010, the 
Group has agreed to make deficit payments of £11 million 
for 12 years from 2011. The LTVC partnership, established 
in March 2014, commits the Group to an annual deficit 
payment of £2 million in 2015, increasing by 5% per annum 
until 2038.

24

48

The £366 million actuarial loss on the Scheme’s liabilities 
was principally due to a material fall in bond yields over the 
year, which has resulted in a large increase in the liabilities. 
The £390 million gain on the Scheme’s assets primarily 
results from increases in the market values of gilts and 
swaps, which has led to assets outperforming expectations.

145

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 4: Capital Structure and  
Financing Costs

In this section . . . 

This section outlines how the Group manages its capital structure and related financing costs, including its balance 
sheet liquidity and access to capital markets.

The Directors determine the appropriate capital structure of ITV, specifically, how much is raised from shareholders 
(equity) and how much is borrowed from financial institutions (debt) in order to finance the Group’s activities both now 
and in the future. Maintaining capital discipline and balance sheet efficiency remains important to the Group, as seen 
through the repurchase of the bilateral loan during the year. Any potential courses of action will take into account the 
Group’s liquidity needs, flexibility to invest in the business, pension deficit initiatives and impact on credit ratings.

The Directors consider the Group’s capital structure and dividend policy at least twice a year ahead of announcing 
results and do so in the context of its ability to continue as a going concern, to execute the strategy and to invest in 
opportunities to grow the business and enhance shareholder value.

In 2014, a Tax and Treasury committee was established, acting under delegated authority from the Board, in order to 
approve certain financial transactions and to monitor compliance with the Group’s tax and treasury policies.

4.1 Net cash

Keeping it simple . . .

Net cash is the Group’s key measure used to evaluate total cash resources net of the current outstanding debt.

Adjusted net debt is also monitored by the Group and more closely reflects how credit agencies see the Group’s 
gearing. To arrive at the adjusted net debt amount, we add our total expected contingent payments on acquisitions, 
our IAS 19 pension deficit and our undiscounted operating lease commitments. A full analysis and discussion of 
adjusted net debt is included in the Financial and Performance Review.

In defining total outstanding debt the Directors consider it appropriate to include the currency impact of swaps held 
against specific debt instruments.

The tables below analyse movements in the components of net cash during the year:

  Cash
  Cash equivalents
Total cash and cash equivalents
  Loans and facilities due within one year
  Finance leases due within one year
  Loans and facilities due after one year
  Finance leases due after one year
Total debt
  Currency component of swaps held against euro denominated bonds
Net cash

1 January
2014
£m
438
80
518
(41)
(21)
(301)
(17)
(380)
26
164

Net cash flow
and
acquisitions
£m
(199)
(17)
(216)
41
21
62
–
124
(26)
(118)

Currency and
non-cash
movements 
£m
(5)
–
(5)
(78)
(7)
78
7
–
–
(5)

31 December
2014 
£m
234
63
297
(78)
(7)
(161)
(10)
(256)
–
41

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Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

  Cash
  Cash equivalents
Total cash and cash equivalents
Held to maturity investments
  Loans and facilities due within one year
  Finance leases due within one year
  Loans and facilities due after one year
  Finance leases due after one year
Total debt
  Currency component of swaps held against euro denominated bonds
  Convertible bond equity component
  Amortised cost adjustment
Net cash

1 January
2013
£m
602
88
690
145
–
(7)
(594)
(38)
(639)
25
(22)
7
206

Net cash flow
and
acquisitions 
£m
(164)
(8)
(172)
(145)
–
7
200
–
207
–
11
–
(99)

Currency and
non-cash
movements
£m
–
–
–
–
(41)
(21)
93
21
52
1
11
(7)
57

31 December
2013
£m
438
80
518
–
(41)
(21)
(301)
(17)
(380)
26
–
–
164

Cash and cash equivalents
Included within cash equivalents is £16 million (2013: £36 
million), the use of which is restricted to meeting finance 
lease commitments under programme sale and leasebacks 
(see note 4.2), and gilts of £39 million (2013: £36 million) 
in respect of which a charging deed was executed on the 
unfunded pension commitments of four former Granada 
executives. Legal action has commenced to try and remove 
the charge.

The Group operates an intra-group cash pool policy with 
certain 100% owned UK subsidiaries. The pool applies 
to bank accounts where there is an unconditional right 
of set off and involves the daily closing cash position for 
participating subsidiaries whether positive or negative,  
being cleared to nil via daily bank transfers to/from ITV plc. 

Loans and facilities due within one year
The unsecured £78 million Eurobond, which has a coupon of 
5.375% and a maturity of October 2015 was reclassified to 
current borrowings. 

In June 2014 the unsecured £41 million (€50 million) 
Eurobond matured, resulting in a net payment by the Group 
of £15 million, after settlement of the Group’s related 
outstanding cross-currency interest rate swaps. 

Loans and loan notes due after one year 
The Group has one loan that is repayable between two  
and five years as at 31 December 2014. The unsecured   
£161 million Eurobond matures in January 2017 and has  
a coupon of 6.125%.

In January 2014 the Group repurchased the remaining 
principal of £62 million on the 2019 bilateral loan for a cash 
cost of £95 million. The repurchase is expected to result 
in future cash savings of £44 million. The loss arising on 
settlement of £30 million has been included in net financing 
costs (note 4.4) but excluded from adjusted profit for  
the year. 

In 2013 £138 million of the 2019 bilateral loan was repaid 
from cash and the held to maturity gilts secured against the 
loan. The Group also settled a £135 million convertible bond, 
through a combination of repurchase and redemption. The 
settlements resulted in a combined loss of £61 million in 
net financing costs, and a net loss attributable to the equity 
component of the bond of £74 million.

147

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Financing Costs continued

4.2 Borrowings and finance leases

Keeping it simple . . .

The Group borrows money from financial institutions in the form of bonds, bank facilities and other financial 
instruments.	The	interest	payable	on	these	instruments	is	shown	in	the	net	financing	costs	note	in note	4.4.

There are Board-approved policies in place to manage the Group’s financial risks. Macroeconomic market risks, which 
impact currency transactions and interest rates, are discussed in note 4.3. Credit and liquidity risks are discussed below.
•	 Credit risk: the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer or counterparty fails to meet its contractual 

obligations; and 

•	 Liquidity risk: the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due.
The Group is required to disclose the fair value of its debt instruments. Here, fair value is the amount the Group 
would pay to transfer the liability. It is calculated based on the present value of future principal and interest cash 
flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the reporting date. This calculation of fair value is consistent with 
instruments valued under level 2 in note 4.6.

Accounting policies
Borrowings
Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value less directly 
attributable transaction costs, with subsequent measurement 
at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method. 
Under the amortised cost method the difference between 
the amount initially recognised and the redemption value 
is recorded in the income statement over the period of the 
borrowing on an effective interest basis.

Finance leases
Historically, ITV has entered into sale and leaseback agreements 
in relation to certain programme titles. Related outstanding 
sale and leaseback obligations, which comprise the principal 
and accrued interest, are included within borrowings. The 
finance related element of the agreement is charged to the 
income statement over the term of the lease on an effective 
interest basis. Sale and leaseback obligations are secured 
against an equivalent cash balance held within cash and  
cash equivalents.

Managing credit and liquidity risk
Credit risk
The Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk is represented 
by the carrying amount of derivative financial assets (see 
note 4.3), trade receivables (see note 3.1.4), and cash and 
cash equivalents (note 4.1).

Trade and other receivables
The Group’s exposure to credit risk is influenced mainly by 
the individual characteristics of each customer. The majority 
of trade receivables relate to airtime sales contracts with 
advertising agencies and advertisers. Credit insurance has 
been taken out against these companies to minimise the 
impact on the Group in the event of a possible default.

Cash 
The Group operates investment guidelines with respect to 
surplus cash that emphasise preservation of capital. The 
guidelines set out procedures and limits on counterparty 
risk and maturity profile of cash placed. Counterparty limits 
for cash deposits are largely based upon long-term ratings 
published by the major credit rating agencies and perceived 
state support. Deposits up to £50 million which are longer 
than 12 months require the approval of the Tax and Treasury 
Committee,  while greater amounts require approval of the 
Board.

Borrowings
ITV is rated as investment grade by Moody’s and S&P. ITV’s 
credit ratings, the cost of credit default swap hedging and 
the absolute level of interest rates are key determinants 
in the cost of new borrowings for ITV. The cost of existing 
borrowing remains fixed, except for the revolving credit 
facility which has floating rate conditions.

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Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Liquidity risk
The Group’s financing policy is to fund itself for the medium 
to long-term by using debt instruments with a range of 
maturities and to ensure access to appropriate short-term 
bank facilities. Long-term funding comes from the UK and 
European Capital markets, while any short to medium-term 
debt requirements are provided through bank credit facilities 
totalling £775 million (see below). Management monitors 
rolling forecasts of the Group’s liquidity reserve (comprising 
undrawn bank facilities and cash and cash equivalents) on 
the basis of expected cash flows. This monitoring includes 
financial ratios to assess possible future credit ratings and 
headroom and takes into account the accessibility of cash 
and cash equivalents. In April 2014 the Group signed a new 

Revolving Credit Facility (‘RCF’) with a group of relationship 
banks, replacing the previous RCF disclosed at 31 December 
2013. The new RCF is a £525 million committed facility with 
leverage and interest cover financial covenants, and matures 
in 2019. The arrangement fee was determined based on 
prevailing market rates when the facility was signed. In 
addition, the Group has arranged £250 million of financial 
covenant free financing which runs for three to seven years. 
All of these facilities were undrawn at 31 December 2014 
(2013: no drawings). 

Fair value versus book value
The tables below provide fair value information for the 
Group’s borrowings:

Loans due within one year
£78 million Eurobond
Loans due in more than one year
£161 million Eurobond
Loans settled or matured in the period
€50 million Eurobond
£62 million loan (previously £200 million loan)

Maturity

Oct 2015

Jan 2017

June 2014
Mar 2019

Book value

Fair value

2014
£m

78

161

–
–
239

2013
£m

78

161

41
62
342

2014
£m

81

173

–
–
254

2013
£m

83

179

43
95
400

Movements in book values of the 2014 Eurobond and 2019 bilateral loans are the result of buybacks and maturities in  
the period.

Finance leases
The following table analyses when finance lease liabilities are due for payment:

In one year or less
In more than one year but not more  
than five years

Minimum
lease 
payments
£m
8

10
18

Interest
£m
1

–
1

2014
Principal
£m
7

10
17

Minimum
lease
payments 
£m
22

18
40

Interest
£m
1

1
2

2013
Principal
£m
21

17
38

Finance leases principally comprise programmes under sale and leaseback arrangements. The net book value of tangible 
assets held under finance leases at 31 December 2014 was £1 million (2013: £1 million).

149

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Financing Costs continued

4.3 Managing market risks: derivative financial instruments

Keeping it simple . . .

A derivative is a type of financial instrument typically used to manage risk. A derivative’s value changes over time in 
response to underlying variables such as exchange rates or interest rates and is entered into for a fixed period. A hedge 
is where a derivative is used to manage an underlying exposure.

The Group is exposed to certain market risks, principally to changes in interest rates on its net borrowings and to 
changes in foreign exchange rates on its foreign currency transactions, profits and net assets. In accordance with 
Board approved policies, which are detailed in this note, the Group manages these risks by using derivative financial 
instruments to hedge these underlying exposures.

The key market risks facing the Group are:
•	 Currency risk arising from: 

i.  translation risk, that is, the risk of adverse currency fluctuations in the translation of foreign currency profits, 
assets and liabilities (‘balance sheet risk’) and non-functional currency monetary assets and liabilities into 
sterling (‘income statement risk’); and 

ii.  transaction risk, that is, the risk that currency fluctuations will have a negative effect on the value of the Group’s 

trading cash flows in various currencies.

•	 Interest rate risk to the Group arises from significant changes in interest rates. Borrowings issued at or swapped to 

floating rates expose the Group to interest rate risk.

The Group mainly employs three types of derivative financial instruments when managing its currency and interest 
rate risk:
•	 Foreign exchange swap contracts are derivative instruments used to hedge income statement translation risk 

arising from short term intercompany loans denominated in a foreign currency;

•	 Forward foreign exchange contracts are derivative instruments used to hedge transaction risk so they enable the 

sale or purchase of foreign currency at a known fixed rate on an agreed future date; and

•	 Interest rate swaps are derivative instruments that exchange a fixed rate of interest for a floating rate, or vice versa, 

or one type of floating rate for another, and are used to manage interest rate risk.

Analysis of the derivatives used by the Group to hedge its exposure and the various methods used to calculate their 
respective fair values are detailed in this section.

Accounting policies
Derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at 
fair value and are subsequently remeasured at fair value with 
the movement recorded in the income statement within 
net financing costs, except where derivatives qualify for cash 
flow hedge accounting. In this case, the effective portion 
of a cash flow hedge is recognised in OCI and presented 
in the hedging reserve within equity. The cumulative gain 
or loss is later reclassified to the income statement in the 
same period as the relevant hedged transaction is realised. 
Derivatives with positive fair values are recorded as assets 
and negative fair values as liabilities.

The fair value of forward foreign exchange contracts is 
determined by using the difference between the contract 
exchange rate and the quoted forward exchange rate at 
the reporting date. The fair value of interest rate swaps 

is the estimated amount that the Group would receive 
or pay to terminate the swap at the reporting date, 
taking into account current interest rates and our current 
creditworthiness, as well as that of our swap counterparties.

Third party valuations are used to fair value the Group’s 
interest rate derivatives. The valuation techniques use 
inputs such as interest rate yield curves and currency prices/
yields, volatilities of underlying instruments and correlations 
between inputs.

Managing currency and interest rate risk
Currency risk
As the Group expands its international operations, the 
performance of the business becomes increasingly sensitive 
to movements in foreign exchange rates, primarily with 
respect to the US dollar and the euro. 

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Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

The Group’s foreign exchange policy is to use forward foreign 
exchange contracts to hedge material foreign currency 
denominated costs or revenue at the time of commitment 
for up to five years forward and to hedge a proportion of 
highly probable foreign currency denominated costs or 
revenue on a rolling 18-month basis. From 2014, the Group 
has started to apply hedge accounting for certain foreign 
exchange hedge contracts. 

The Group ensures that its net exposure to foreign currency 
denominated cash balances is kept to a minimal level by 
using foreign currency swaps to exchange balances back 
into sterling or by buying or selling foreign currencies at spot 
rates when necessary.

The Group also utilises foreign exchange swaps both to 
manage foreign currency cash flow timing differences and 
to hedge foreign currency denominated monetary items.

The Group’s net investments in overseas subsidiaries may  
be hedged where the currency exposure is considered to  
be material. In 2014 no such hedges were entered into  
(2013: none).

The following table highlights the Group’s sensitivity to a 10% 
strengthening/weakening in sterling against the US dollar and 
euro, assuming all other variables are held constant:

US dollar 
Euro

Interest rate risk
Between 2011 and 2014 the Group’s interest rate policy has 
been to have 100% of its borrowings at fixed rates in order to 
lock in low interest rates. This policy was amended in 2014 to 
allow fixed rate gross debt to vary between 20% and 100% 
of total gross debt to accommodate floating rate borrowings 
under the new revolving credit facility. At 31 December 2014 
the Group’s fixed rate debt represented 100% of total debt.

At 31 December 2014, if interest rates had increased/
decreased by 1%, post-tax profit for the year would have 
been £2 million higher/lower (2013: £4 million).

Current
Interest rate swaps – fair value through profit or loss
Cash flow hedges
Non-current
Interest rate swaps – fair value through profit or loss
Cash flow hedges

Current
Interest rate swaps – fair value through profit or loss
Cash flow hedges
Non-current
Interest rate swaps – fair value through profit or loss
Cash flow hedges

2014 – 
equity

2014 – post-
tax profit

2013 – 
equity
£8 million £34 million £8 million £17 million
£8 million £29 million £7 million £15 million

2013 – post-
tax profit

For financial assets and liabilities classified at fair value 
through profit or loss, the movements in the year relating to 
changes in fair value and interest are not separated.

Derivative financial instruments
The following table shows the fair value of derivative 
financial instruments analysed by type of contract. Interest 
rate swap fair values exclude accrued interest.

Assets 
£m

2014 
Liabilities 
£m

11
–

16
–
27

(9)
(3)

(11)
(1)
(24)

Assets 
£m

2013 
Liabilities 
£m

32
–

41
–
73

(6)
–

(27)
–
(33)

151

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 4: Capital Structure and  
Financing Costs continued

relevant cash flows are payable within the next two years. In 
order to fix the sterling cash outflows associated with the 
commitments – which are denominated in AUD or euros – the 
Group has taken out forward foreign exchange contracts for 
the same foreign currency amount and maturity date as the 
expected foreign currency outflow. The amount recognised 
in OCI during the period all relates to the effective portion of 
the revaluation loss associated with these contracts. There 
was no ineffective portion taken to the income statement, 
nor were there any cumulative gains or losses recycled to the 
income statement in the year (nil in 2013).

On issuing the 2015 and 2017 Eurobonds, the Group entered 
into a portfolio of fixed to floating interest rate swaps and 
then subsequently overlaid a portfolio of floating to fixed 
interest rate swaps with the result that interest is now 100% 
fixed on these borrowings. The timing of entering into these 
swaps locked in an interest benefit for the Group, resulting 
in a net mark-to-market gain on the portfolio.

Forward foreign exchange contracts are primarily used to 
hedge the Group’s foreign currency firm commitments and 
highly probable forecast payments and receipts.

Cash flow hedges
In the year, the Group implemented hedge accounting for 
certain foreign currency firm commitments, where the 

Undiscounted financial liabilities

Keeping it simple . . .

The Group is required to disclose the expected timings of cash outflows for each of its financial liabilities (including 
derivatives). The amounts disclosed in the table are the contractual undiscounted cash flows (including interest), so 
will not always reconcile with the amounts disclosed on the statement of financial position.

Total  
contractual 
cash flows 
£m

(357)
(726)
(4)
(96)

20
(4)
(1,167)

Total 
contractual 
cash flows 
£m

(483)
(744)
(1)
(97)

55
(1,270)

Less than 
1 year 
£m

Between 
1 and 2 years 
£m

Between 
2 and 5 years 
£m

Over 
5 years 
£m

(100)
(699)
–
–

10
(2)
(791)

(16)
(23)
(3)
(9)

3
(2)
(50)

(175)
(4)
(1)
(81)

7
–
(254)

(66)
–
–
(6)

–
–
(72)

Less than 
1 year 
£m

Between 
1 and 2 years 
£m

Between 
2 and 5 years 
£m

Over 
5 years 
£m

(92)
(702)
–
–

37
(757)

(108)
(31)
–
(4)

9
(134)

(216)
(10)
(1)
(75)

9
(293)

(67)
(1)
–
(18)

–
(86)

At 31 December 2014
Non-derivative financial liabilities
Borrowings
Trade and other payables
Other payables – non-current
Other payables – commitments on acquisitions
Derivative financial instruments
Interest rate swaps
Foreign exchange forward contracts

At 31 December 2013

Non-derivative financial liabilities
Borrowings
Trade and other payables
Other payables – non-current
Other payables – commitments on acquisitions
Derivative financial instruments
Interest rate swaps

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Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

4.4 Net financing costs

Keeping it simple . . .

This section details the interest income generated on the Group’s cash and other financial assets and the interest 
expense incurred on borrowings and other financial liabilities. 

In reporting ‘adjusted profit’, the Group adjusts net financing costs to exclude mark-to-market movements on interest 
rate and foreign exchange derivatives, gains/losses on bond buybacks, net pension interest, interest and fair value 
movements in acquisition-related liabilities and other financing costs.

Read	more	on	our	rationale	for	adjustments	made	to	financing	costs	in	the Financial	and	Performance	Review.

Accounting policies
Net financing costs comprise interest income on funds 
invested, gains/losses on the disposal of financial 
instruments, changes in the fair value of financial 
instruments, interest expense on borrowings and finance 
leases, unwinding of the discount on provisions, unwinding 
of the discount on liabilities to non-controlling interest, 
foreign exchange gains/losses, and imputed interest on 
pension assets and liabilities. Interest income and expense is 
recognised as it accrues in profit or loss, using the effective 
interest method.

Net financing costs
Net financing costs can be analysed as follows:

As detailed in note 4.1, losses on early settlement of  
£30 million (2013: £61 million) were incurred as a result of 
the remaining repurchase of the £62 million 2019 bilateral 
loan.

Interest on financial liabilities relates to the interest incurred 
on the Group’s borrowings in the year. 

Other finance income primarily relates to acquisition-
related contingent liabilities, where estimates of the 
future performance against stretch targets is reassessed, 
resulting in adjustments to the related put option liabilities 
and contingent consideration are required. Other finance 
expense includes the amortisation of facility commitment 
and upfront fees.

Financing income:
Interest income

  Change in fair value of 

instruments classified at fair 

  value through profit or loss
  Foreign exchange gain
  Other finance income

Financing costs:

Interest expense on financial 
liabilities measured at 

  amortised cost
  Net pension interest 

(see note 3.7)

  Losses on early settlement
  Foreign exchange loss
  Other finance expense

Net financing costs

2014  
£m

2013 
£m

Read more on our financing costs in the  Financial and 
Performance Review on page 45.

4

–
1
17
22

(19)

(17)
(30)
–
(7)
(73)
(51)

7

3
–
–
10

(29)

(20)
(61)
(1)
(14)
(125)
(115)

153

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Section 4: Capital Structure  
and Financing Costs continued

4.5 Fair value hierarchy 

Keeping it simple . . .

The financial instruments included on the ITV statement of financial position are measured at either fair value or 
amortised cost. The measurement of this fair value can in some cases be subjective, and can depend on the inputs 
used in the calculations. ITV generally uses external valuations using market inputs or market values (e.g. external share 
prices). The different valuation methods are called ‘hierarchies’ and are described below.

The tables below set out the financial instruments included on the ITV statement of financial position at ‘fair value’.

Assets measured at fair value
Available for sale financial instruments
  Available for sale gilts
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
  Contingent consideration

Interest rate swaps

Liabilities measured at fair value
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

Interest rate swaps

    Contingent consideration
Financial liabilities at fair value through reserves
  Cash flow hedges

Assets measured at fair value
Available for sale financial instruments
  Available for sale gilts
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Interest rate swaps

Liabilities measured at fair value
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

Interest rate swaps

  Contingent consideration

154

Fair value 
31 December 
2014 
£m

Level 1 
31 December 
2014 
£m

Level 2 
31 December 
2014 
£m

Level 3 
31 December 
2014 
£m

39

32
27
98

39

–
–
39

–

–
27
27

–

32
–
32

Fair value 
31 December 
2014 
£m

Level 1 
31 December 
2014 
£m

Level 2 
31 December 
2014 
£m

Level 3 
31 December 
2014 
£m

(20)
(3)

(4)
(27)

–
–

–
–

(20)
–

(4)
(24)

–
(3)

–
(3)

Fair value 
31 December 
2013 
£m

Level 1 
31 December 
2013 
£m

Level 2 
31 December 
2013 
£m

Level 3 
31 December 
2013 
£m

36

73
109

36

–
36

–

73
73

–

–
–

Fair value 
31 December 
2013 
£m

Level 1 
31 December 
2013 
£m

Level 2 
31 December 
2013 
£m

Level 3 
31 December 
2013 
£m

(33)
(7)
(40)

–
–
–

(33)
–
(33)

–
(7)
(7)

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial Statements 
 
 
 
Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Level 1
Fair values are measured using quoted prices (unadjusted) in 
active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2
Fair values are measured using inputs, other than quoted 
prices included within Level 1, that are observable for the 
asset or liability either directly or indirectly.

Interest rate swaps and options are accounted for at their 
fair value based upon termination prices. Forward foreign 
exchange contracts are accounted for at the difference 
between the contract exchange rate and the quoted 
forward exchange rate at the reporting date.

Level 3
Fair values are measured using inputs for the asset or liability 
that are not based on observable market data.

Contingent consideration is the Group’s only financial 
instrument classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. 
As	noted	in	the	accounting	policy	section	of note	3.3,	the	
key assumptions taken into consideration when measuring 
this acquisition-related liability are the performance 
expectations of the acquisition and a discount rate that 
reflects the size and nature of the new business. There is no 
reasonable change in discount rate or performance targets 
that would give rise to a material change in the liability at 
year end.

The table below summarises the key movement in the 
contingent consideration during the year.

At 1 January
Acquisitions (see note 3.4)
Changes in estimates (income statement)
Currency translation 
At 31 December
  Current
  Non-current
At 31 December

Asset 
2014
£m

Liability
2014
£m

Asset
2013
£m

Liability
2013
£m

–
30
–
2
32
–
32
32

(7)
(1)
5
–
(3)
–
(3)
(3)

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

(1)
(6)
–
–
(7)
–
(7)
(7)

Changes in estimates, including the unwind of interest and fair value movements, are recognised in net financing costs.

4.6 Equity

Keeping it simple . . .

This section explains material movements recorded in 
shareholders’ equity that are not explained elsewhere 
in the financial statements. The movements in equity 
and the balance at 31 December 2014 are presented 
in the consolidated statement of changes in equity.

Accounting policies
Available for sale reserve
Available for sale assets are stated at fair value, with any gain 
or loss recognised directly in the available for sale reserve in 
equity, unless the loss is a permanent impairment, when it is 
then recorded in the income statement.

Dividends
Dividends are recognised through equity on the earlier 
of their approval by the Company’s shareholders or their 
payment.

4.6.1 Share capital and share premium
The Group’s share capital at 31 December 2014 of £403 
million (2013: £403 million) and share premium of £174 
million (2013: £174 million) is the same as that of ITV plc. 
Details of this are given in the ITV plc Company financial 
statements section of this annual report. 

155

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Section 4: Capital Structure  
and Financing Costs continued

4.6.2 Merger and other reserves
Merger and other reserves at 31 December 2014 include the 
following reserves:

4.7 Share-based compensation

Keeping it simple . . .

The Group utilises share award schemes as part of 
its employee remuneration packages, and therefore 
operates a number of share-based compensation 
schemes, namely the Deferred Share Award (DSA), 
Performance Share Plan (PSP), Long Term Incentive 
Plan (LTIP) and Save As You Earn (SAYE) schemes.

A transaction will be classed as share-based 
compensation where the Group receives services 
from employees and pays for these in shares or similar 
equity instruments. If the Group incurs a liability 
whose amount is based on the price or value of the 
Group’s shares then this will also fall under a share-
based transaction. 

A description of each type of share-based payment 
arrangement that existed at any time during the 
period are set out in the Annual Remuneration Report.

Read more on each of the Group’s share award schemes 
in the Annual Remuneration Report and Remuneration 
Policy on pages 82 to 99.

Accounting policies
For each of the Group’s share-based compensation schemes, 
the fair value of the equity instrument granted is measured 
at grant date and spread over the vesting period via a charge 
to the income statement with a corresponding increase in 
equity.

The fair value of the share options and awards is measured 
using either market price at grant date or, for the Save as you 
Earn scheme, a Black–Scholes model, taking into account 
the terms and conditions of the individual scheme. 

Vesting conditions are limited to service conditions and 
performance conditions. For performance-based schemes, 
the relevant Group performance measures are projected to 
the end of the performance period in order to determine the 
number of options expected to vest. Based on this number, 
and the option fair values, their present value is determined. 
At each reporting date, the Group revises its estimates of 
the number of options that are expected to vest, including 
an estimate of forfeitures. It recognises the impact of 
the revision to original estimates, if any, in the income 
statement, with a corresponding adjustment to equity.

Merger reserves 
Capital reserves
Capital redemption reserves
Revaluation reserves
Put option liabilities arising on 
acquisition of new subsidiaries
Total

2014
£m
119
112
36
6

(45)
228

2013
£m
119
112
36
6

(25)
248

The £20 million increase in liabilities on the put options 
for the acquisition of new subsidiaries relates to the non-
controlling interests of Leftfield Entertainment and DiGa 
Vision, as detailed in note 3.4. 

4.6.3 Translation reserve
The translation reserve comprises:
•	 all foreign exchange differences arising on the translation 
of the accounts of, and investments in, foreign operations;

•	 the gains or losses on the portion of cash flow hedges 
that have been deemed effective (see note 4.3).

4.6.4 Available for sale reserve
The available for sale reserve comprises all movements 
arising on the revaluation of gilts accounted for as available 
for sale.

4.6.5 Retained earnings
The retained earnings reserve comprises profit for the year 
attributable to owners of the Company of £466 million 
(2013: £326 million) and other items recognised directly 
through equity as presented in the consolidated statement 
of changes in equity. Other items include the credit for the 
Group’s share-based compensation schemes and the charge 
for the purchase of ITV shares via the ITV Employees’ Benefit 
Trust, which are described in note 4.7.

The Directors of ITV plc propose a final dividend of 3.3p per 
share and a special dividend of 6.25p per share.

4.6.6 Non-controlling interests
The movement for the year comprises:
•	 the fair value of the non-controlling interests acquired in 

the year of £20 million (2013: £13 million);

•	 the share of profits attributable to non-controlling 
interests on US acquisitions of £7 million (2013: ££4 
million); and

•	 the distributions made to non-controlling interests of £8 

million (2013: £1 million).

156

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Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Exercises of share options granted to employees can be satisfied by market purchase or issue of new shares. No new shares 
may be issued to satisfy exercises under the terms of the DSA. During the year all exercises were satisfied by using shares 
purchased in the market and held in the ITV Employees’ Benefit Trust.

Share-based compensation charges totalled £14 million in 2014 (2013: £14 million).

The table below summarises the movements in the number of share options outstanding for the Group and their weighted 
average exercise price:

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year – nil priced
Granted during the year – other
Forfeited during the year
Exercised during the year
Expired during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Exercisable at 31 December

2014 
Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
(pence)
14.52
–
162.86
28.67
9.02
12.94
32.97
14.47

Number 
of options
(’000)
67,676
8,594
5,999
(1,381)
(27,860)
(1,095)
51,933
1,129

2013 
Weighted
average
exercise price
(pence)
11.06
–
126.97
7.69
5.97
51.51
14.52
–

Number
of options
(’000)
68,387
12,726
13,371
(4,900)
(21,385)
(523)
67,676
846

For those options exercised in the year, the average share price during 2014 was 198.01 pence (2013: 150.44 pence).

Of the options still outstanding, the range of exercise prices and weighted average remaining contractual life of these 
options can be analysed as follows:

Range of exercise prices (pence)
Nil
20.00 – 49.99
50.00 – 69.99
70.00 – 99.99
100.00 – 109.99

110.00 – 119.99
120.00 – 149.99
150.00 – 199.99

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
(pence)
–
35.61
67.37
73.58
102.59

–
131.44
163.72

Number 
of options 
(’000)
36,522
1,120
5,123
303
1,733

–
1,251
5,881

2014
Weighted 
average 
remaining 
contractual 
life
(years)
1.75
0.53
1.11
1.90
2.16

–
2.52
2.80

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
(pence)
–
31.09
67.38
73.58
102.59

–
131.44
–

2013
Weighted 
average 
remaining 
contractual 
life
(years)
1.88
1.29
2.11
1.31
3.16

–
3.20
–

Number 
of options 
(’000)
44,439
2,960
5,399
1,639
1,899

–
11,339
–

157

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 4: Capital Structure  
and Financing Costs continued

Assumptions
DSA, LTIP and PSP options are valued directly by reference to the share price at date of grant. The options for the SAYE 
scheme, an HMRC approved SAYE scheme, are valued using the Black–Scholes model, using the assumptions below:

Scheme 
name
3 Year
5 Year
3 Year
5 Year
3 Year
5 Year
3 Year
5 Year

Date of grant
5 April 2013
5 April 2013
10 Sept 2013
10 Sept 2013
3 April 2014
3 April 2014
10 Sept 2014
10 Sept 2014

Share price 
at grant 
(pence)
121.00
121.00
183.40
183.40
195.50
195.50
212.40
212.40

Exercise price
(pence)
102.59
102.59
131.44
131.44
159.68
159.68
165.33
165.33

Expected
volatility 
%
36.00
49.00
34.00
47.00
32.00
38.00
29.00
34.00

Expected life
(years)
3.25
5.25
3.25
5.25
3.25
5.25
3.25
5.25

Gross dividend
yield 
%
2.89
2.89
1.91
1.91
2.15
2.15
1.98
1.98

Risk-free 
rate
 %
0.31
0.72
1.04
1.80
1.27
1.94
1.30
1.81

Fair value
(pence)
31.40
46.08
62.85
84.32
53.78
70.41
61.14
74.29

Employees’ Benefit Trust
The Group has investments in its own shares as a result of shares purchased by the ITV Employees’ Benefit Trust (‘EBT’). 
Transactions with the Group-sponsored EBT are included in these financial statements and primarily consist of the EBT’s 
purchases of shares in ITV plc, which are accounted for as a reduction to retained earnings.

The table below shows the number of ITV plc shares held in the EBT at 31 December 2014 and the purchases/(releases) from 
the EBT made in the year to satisfy awards under the Group’s share schemes:

Scheme

DSA releases

PSP releases
SAYE releases
Shares purchased

Shares held at
1 January 2014

31 December 2014

Number of shares 
(released)/
purchased
21,777,453
(4,309,330)

(9,954,677)
(3,292,458)
18,261,759
22,482,747

Nominal value 
£
2,177,745

2,248,275

The total number of shares held by the EBT at 31 December 2014 represents 0.56% (2013: 0.54%) of ITV’s issued share 
capital. The market value of own shares held at 31 December 2014 is £48 million (2013: £42 million).

The shares will be held in the EBT until such time as they may be transferred to participants of the various Group share 
schemes. Rights to dividends have been waived by the EBT in respect of shares held which do not relate to restricted shares 
under the DSA. In accordance with the Trust Deed, the Trustees of the EBT have the power to exercise all voting rights in 
relation to any investment (including shares) held within that trust.

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5.1 Related party transactions

Keeping it simple . . . 

The related parties identified by the Directors include 
joint ventures, associated undertakings, fixed asset 
investments and key management personnel.

To enable users of our financial statements to form a 
view about the effects of related party relationships on 
the Group, we disclose the Group’s transactions with 
those related parties during the year and any associated 
year end trading balances.

Related party transactions
Transactions with joint ventures and associated 
undertakings
Transactions with joint ventures and associated 
undertakings during the year were:

Sales to joint ventures
Sales to associated undertakings
Purchases from joint ventures
Purchases from associated 
undertakings

2014
£m
7
10
26

59

2013
£m
10
11
27

57

The transactions with joint ventures primarily relate to sales and 
purchases of digital multiplex services with Digital 3&4 Limited. 

Purchases from associated undertakings primarily relate to 
the purchase of news services from ITN. 

All transactions with associated undertakings and joint 
ventures arise in the normal course of business on an arm’s 
length basis. None of the balances are secured.

The amounts owed by and to these related parties at the 
year end were:

Amounts owed by associated 
undertakings
Amounts owed by pension scheme
Amounts owed to associated 
undertakings

2014
£m

48
1

5

2013
£m

4
2

–

Balances owed by associated undertakings largely relate to 
production funding advanced to Tomorrow ITV Studios and 
Mammoth Screen Limited.

Amounts paid to the Group’s retirement benefit plans are 
set out in note 3.7. 

Independent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Transactions with key management personnel
Key management consists of ITV plc Executive and Non-
executive Directors and the ITV Management Board. Key 
management personnel compensation is as follows:

Short-term employee benefits
Share-based compensation

5.2 Contingent liabilities

2014
£m
9
5
14

2013
£m
8
5
13

Keeping it simple . . . 

A contingent liability is a liability that is not sufficiently 
certain to qualify for recognition as a provision where 
uncertainty may exist regarding the outcome of  
future events.

There are contingent liabilities in respect of certain litigation 
and guarantees, broadcasting issues, and in respect of 
warranties given in connection with certain disposals of 
businesses. None of these items are expected to have a 
material effect on the Group’s results or financial position.

159

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsSection 5: Other Notes continued

5.3 Subsidiaries exempt from audit

Keeping it simple . . . 
Certain subsidiaries of the Group can take an 
exemption from having an audit. Strict criteria must 
be met for this exemption to be taken, and it must be 
agreed to by the Directors of that subsidiary entity. 

Listed below are subsidiaries controlled and consolidated by 
the Group, where the Directors have taken the exemption 
from having an audit of its financial statements for the 
year ended 31 December 2014. This exemption is taken in 
accordance with Companies Act s479A. 

Company 
number
1891539
2285229
5078683
4159249
1692483
3984490
3053908
3210452
3307790
2625225
3210363
2852812
3209058
3106798
5344772
0733063
1127149
6914987
4159213
8534385
3916436
5518785
4201477

Company
name
Broad Street Films Limited
Campania Limited
Carbon Media Limited
Carlton Content Holdings Limited
Carlton Finance Limited
Carlton Food Network Limited
Carlton Programmes Development Limited
Carlton Screen Advertising (Holdings) Limited
Carltonco 103
Carltonco Forty Investments
Carltonco Ninety-Six
Cosgrove Hall Films Limited
DTV Limited
Granada Media Limited
Granada Screen (2005) Limited
Granada Television Overseas Limited
ITV Breathless Limited
ITV (HC) Limited
ITV International Channels (Asia) Limited
ITV Lucan Limited
ITV News Channel Limited
Juice Music UK Limited
Morning TV Limited

160

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

ITV plc Company Financial 
Statements

Company Balance Sheet

As at 31 December

Fixed assets
Investments in subsidiary undertakings 
Derivative financial instruments

Current assets
Amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings
Derivative financial instruments
Other debtors
Cash at bank and in hand and short-term deposits

Creditors – amounts falling due within one year
Borrowings
Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings
Accruals and deferred income
Derivative financial instruments

Net current assets/(liabilities)
Total assets less current liabilities
Creditors – amounts falling due after more than one year
Borrowings
Derivative financial instruments

Net assets

Capital and reserves
Called up share capital
Share premium
Other reserves
Profit and loss account
Shareholders’ funds – equity

2013
£m

1,280
32
26
319
1,657

(41)
(1,342)
(22)
(5)
(1,410)

2014
£m

Note

iii

2014
£m

1,705
17
1,722

1,441
14
20
145
1,620

(78)
(1,795)
(19)
(12)
(1,904)

v

v

vi
vii
vii
vii

(284)
1,438

(161)
(12)
(173)
1,265

403
174
36
652
1,265

The accounts were approved by the Board of Directors on 4 March 2015 and were signed on its behalf by:

Ian Griffiths  
Director

2013
£m

1,648
41
1,689

247
1,936

(301)
(27)
(328)
1,608

403
174
36
995
1,608

161

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsNotes to the ITV plc  
Company Financial Statements

i Accounting policies
Basis of preparation
These accounts have been prepared in accordance with UK 
Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (UK GAAP).

As permitted by section 408 (3) of the Companies Act 2006, 
a separate profit and loss account, dealing with the results 
of the parent company, has not been presented.

Under FRS 29 the Company is exempt from the requirement 
to provide its own financial instruments disclosures, on the 
grounds that it is included in publicly available consolidated 
financial statements which include disclosures that comply 
with the IFRS equivalent to that standard.

The Company has taken advantage of the FRS 1 exemption 
from the requirement to prepare and disclose a cash flow 
statement.

Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are entities that are directly or indirectly 
controlled by the Company. Control exists where the 
Company has the power to govern the financial and 
operating policies of the entity so as to obtain benefits from 
its activities. The investment in the Company’s subsidiaries 
is recorded at cost, adjusted for the effect of UITF 41 
when it was adopted in prior years. Annual FRS 20 share-
based payment compensation costs are recharged to the 
subsidiaries through the profit and loss account.

Foreign currency transactions
Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into sterling 
at the rate of exchange ruling at the date of the transaction. 
Foreign currency monetary assets and liabilities at the 
balance sheet date are translated into sterling at the rate of 
exchange ruling at that date. Foreign exchange differences 
arising on translation are recognised in the profit and loss 
account. Non-monetary assets and liabilities measured 
at historical cost are translated into sterling at the rate of 
exchange on the date of the transaction.

Borrowings
Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value including 
directly attributable transaction costs, with subsequent 
measurement at amortised cost using the effective interest 
rate method. The difference between initial fair value and 
the redemption value is recorded in the profit and loss 
account over the period of the liability on an effective 
interest basis.

Derivatives and other financial instruments
The Company uses a limited number of derivative financial 
instruments to hedge its exposure to fluctuations in interest 
and other foreign exchange rates. The Company does not 
hold or issue derivative instruments for speculative purposes.

Derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair 
value and are subsequently remeasured at fair value with the 
movement recorded in the profit and loss account within net 
financing costs, except where derivatives qualify for cash 
flow hedge accounting. In this case, the effective portion 
of cash flow hedge is recognised in retained profits within 
equity. The cumulative gain or loss is later reclassified to the 
profit and loss account in the same period as the relevant 
hedged transaction is realised. Derivatives with positive 
fair values are recorded as assets and negative fair values as 
liabilities.

The fair value of foreign currency forward contracts is 
determined by using the difference between the contract 
exchange rate and the quoted forward exchange rate at 
the balance sheet date. The fair value of interest rate swaps 
is the estimated amount that the Company would receive 
or pay to terminate the swap at the balance sheet date, 
taking into account current interest rates and the current 
creditworthiness of swap counterparties.

Third party valuations are used to fair value the Company’s 
derivatives. The valuation techniques use inputs such 
as interest rate yield curves and currency prices/yields, 
volatilities of underlying instruments and correlations 
between inputs.

For financial assets and liabilities classified at fair value 
through profit or loss the fair value change and interest 
income/expense are not separated.

Dividends
Dividends are recognised through equity on the earlier 
of their approval by the Company’s shareholders or their 
payment.

ii Employees
Two (2013: two) Directors of ITV plc were employees of the 
Company during the year, both of whom remain at the year 
end. The costs relating to these Directors are disclosed in the 
Remuneration Report.

162

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

vii  Reconciliation of movements in  

shareholders’ funds

Share
capital
£m
391
12
403

Share
premium
£m
122
52
174

Other
reserves
£m
58
(22)
36

Profit 
and loss
Total
account
£m
£m
897
326
669
711
995 1,608

–

–

–

(44)

(44)

–
–
403

–
–
174

–
–
36

14
14
(313)
(313)
652 1,265

At 1 January 2013
Movement for year
At 1 January 2014
Retained loss for year 
for equity shareholders
Share-based 
compensation
External dividend paid
At 31 December 2014

The loss after tax for the year dealt with in the accounts of 
ITV plc is £44 million (2013: £996 million profit).

The profit and loss account reserves of £652 million at  
31 December 2014 are all distributable.

The Company received no dividends from subsidiaries in 
2014 (2013: £1,117 million). 

The Directors of the Company propose a final dividend of 
3.3p per share and a special dividend of 6.25p per share.

iii Investments in subsidiary undertakings
The principal subsidiary undertakings are listed in note xi. 
The balance at 31 December 2014 was £1,705 million (2013: 
£1,648 million). During the year, the Company increased its 
investment in its direct subsidiary, Carlton Communications 
Limited, by £57 million.

iv  Amounts owed (to)/from subsidiary 

undertakings

The Group operates an intra-group cash pool policy with 
certain 100% owned UK subsidiaries. The pool applies 
to bank accounts where there is an unconditional right 
of set off and involves the daily closing cash position for 
participating subsidiaries whether positive or negative, being 
cleared to £nil via daily bank transfers to/from ITV plc. These 
daily transactions create a corresponding intercompany 
creditor or debtor which can result in significant movements  
in amounts owed to and from subsidiary undertakings in the 
Company balance sheet.

v Borrowings
Loans repayable in less than one year
Loans repayable within one year as at 31 December 2014 
comprise an unsecured £78 million Eurobond which has a 
coupon of 5.375% maturing in October 2015.

Loans repayable after more than one year
Loans repayable after more than one year as at 31 December 
2014 comprise an unsecured £161 million Eurobond which 
has a coupon of 7.375% maturing in January 2017.

vi Called up share capital

Ordinary shares of 10 pence each
Authorised:
8,000,000,000
Allotted, issued and fully paid:
4,025,409,194
Total

Allotted,
issued
and fully
paid
2014 & 
2013
£m

Authorised
2014 & 
2013
£m

800

800

403
403

The Company’s ordinary shares give shareholders equal rights 
to vote, receive dividends and to the repayment of capital. 

163

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial StatementsNotes to the ITV plc  
Company Financial Statements continued

viii Contingent liabilities
Under a Group registration, the Company is jointly and 
severally liable for VAT at 31 December 2014 of £58 
million (31 December 2013: £51 million). The Company has 
guaranteed certain finance and operating lease obligations 
of subsidiary undertakings. 

There are contingent liabilities in respect of certain litigation 
and guarantees, broadcasting issues, and in respect of 
warranties given in connection with certain disposals of 
businesses. None of these items are expected to have a 
material effect on the Group’s results or financial position.

Where the Company enters into financial guarantee contracts to 
guarantee the indebtedness of other companies within its Group, 
the Company considers these to be insurance arrangements, and 
accounts for them as such. In this respect, the Company treats 
the guarantee contract as a contingent liability until such time as 
it becomes probable that the Company will be required to make 
a payment under the guarantee.

ix Capital and other commitments
There are no capital commitments at 31 December 2014 
(2013: none).

x Related party transactions
Transactions with key management personnel
Key management consists of ITV plc Executive Directors.

Key management personnel compensation, on an 
accounting basis, is as follows:

Short-term employee benefits
Share-based compensation

2014
£m
3
2
5

2013
£m
3
2
5

Total emoluments and gains on share options received by 
key management personnel in the year were:

Emoluments
Gains on exercise of share options
Gains on release of restricted share 
awards

2014
£m
3
2

3
8

2013
£m
3
7

–
10

xi  Principal subsidiary undertakings and investments
Principal subsidiary undertakings
The principal subsidiary undertakings of the Company at 31 December 2014, all of which are wholly owned (directly or 
indirectly) and incorporated and registered in England and Wales except where stated, are:

Name
ITV Broadcasting Limited
ITV Network Limited
ITV Rights Limited
ITV2 Limited
ITV Digital Channels Limited

ITV Consumer Limited
SDN Limited
ITV Studios Limited
ITV Studios, Inc.1
ITV Global Entertainment Limited
ITV Services Limited
Carlton Communications Limited
Leftfield Entertainment, Inc.1,2

Incorporated and registered in the USA. 

1. 
2.  80% owned.

Principal activity
Broadcast of television programmes 
Scheduling and commissioning of television programmes
Rights ownership
Operation of digital television channels 
Operation of digital television channels 
Development of platforms, broadband, transactional and mobile 
services 
Operation of Freeview Multiplex A
Production of television programmes 
Production of television programmes 
Rights ownership and distribution of television programmes and films
Provision of services for other companies within the Group 
Holding company 
Production of television programmes 

A list of all subsidiary undertakings will be included in the Company’s annual return to Companies House.

164

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Financial StatementsIndependent Auditor’s Report
Introduction and Table of Contents
Primary Statements
ITV plc Company Financial Statements

Principal joint ventures, associated undertakings and investments
The Company indirectly held at 31 December 2014 the following interests in significant joint ventures, associates and 
investments:

Interest in 
ordinary 
share capital 
2014
%

Interest in 
ordinary 
share capital 
2013
%

50.0
50.0

40.0
25.0
–
–

–
–

50.0
50.0

40.0
25.0
–
–

–
–

Principal activity

Provision of a standard and high definition 
enabled digital satellite proposition
 Operates the Channel 3 & 4 digital terrestrial multiplex

Supply of news services to broadcasters 
in the UK and elsewhere
Production of scripted content
Production of scripted content
Production of content for digital distribution

Production of content for digital distribution
Digital-first media company

Name

Joint ventures

Freesat (UK) Limited
Digital 3 & 4 Limited
Associates
Independent Television News 
Limited (ITN)
Mammoth Screen Limited
Tomorrow ITV Studios 1
Indigenous Media 2
Fixed asset investments
Believe Entertainment 3
Zealot Networks 4

1.  25% preferred interest.
14.7% preferred interest.
2. 
3.  15.2% preferred interest.
4.  6% preferred interest.

165

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial Statements 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pictured: 
DCI Banks returned for its third series in 
2014. It averaged 7.1 million viewers and a 
24% share, making it the most successful 
series of the show to date.

166

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Shareholder
Information

Financial Record

Shareholder Information

Glossary

168

169

172

167

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVFinancial RecordShareholder InformationGlossaryShareholder InformationFinancial Record

Results

Revenue

Earnings before interest, tax and amortisation (EBITA)  
before exceptional items
Amortisation of intangible assets
Impairment of intangible assets
Share of losses of joint ventures and associated undertakings
Exceptional items
Profit before interest and tax
Net financing costs
Profit before tax
Taxation charge
Profit after tax
Non-controlling interests
Profit for the financial year
Basic earnings per share
Adjusted earnings per share
Dividend per share
Special dividend per share

Consolidated statement of financial position
Share capital
Reserves
Total equity attributable to equity shareholders of the  
parent company
Non-controlling interests
Net assets
Represented by:
Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
Investments
Distribution rights
Inventory
Trade and other receivables (including assets held for sale 
and derivative financial instruments)
Deferred tax asset
Total assets
Net cash/(debt)
Deferred tax liability
Other liabilities
Provisions

168

2014
£m

2013
£m

2012
£m

2011
£m

2010
£m

2,590

2,389

2,196

2,140

2,064

730
(67)
–
–
(7)
656
(51)
605
(132)
473
(7)
466
11.6p
13.8p
3.3p
6.25p

403
611

1,014
50
1,064

1,377
14
13
367

436
43
2,250
41
–
(1,206)
(21)
1,064

620
(66)
–
(2)
(2)
550
(115)
435
(105)
330
(4)
326
8.3p
11.2p
3.5p
4.0p

403
455

858
31
889

1,213
4
10
322

449
52
2,050
164
–
(1,298)
(27)
889

513
(57)
(3)
(1)
(12)
440
(106)
334
(77)
257
(1)
256
6.6p
9.1p
2.6p
4.0p

391
426

817
15
832

1,094
9
17
252

479
93
1,944
206
–
(1,281)
(37)
832

462
(59)
–
(2)
1
402
(75)
327
(79)
248
(1)
247
6.4p
7.9p
1.6p
–

389
417

806
3
809

1,101
5
11
285

475
65
1,942
45
–
(1,145)
(33)
809

408
(63)
–
(3)
19
361
(75)
286
(16)
270
(1)
269
6.9p
6.4p
–
–

389
272

661
2
663

1,120
5
12
284

511
73
2,005
(188)
–
(1,105)
(49)
663

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Shareholder InformationShareholder Information

Shareholder Information
Glossary

Shareholder profile

Information as at 31 December 2014

Type of holder:
Insurance companies

Banks and nominee companies
Individuals
Others
Totals

Size of holding:
1 – 100
101 – 200
201 – 500
501 – 1,000
1,001 – 2,000
2,001 – 5,000
5,001 – 10,000
10,001 – 50,000
50,001 – 100,000
100,001 – 500,000
500,001 – 1,000,000
1,000,001 – 5,000,000
5,000,001 – 10,000,000
10,000,001 – 50,000,000
50,000,001 and above
Totals

Holders
Number

5

2,792
53,766
1,368
57,931

Holders
Number

9,703
7,820
14,751
9,345
7,160
5,066
1,759
1,300
205
335
141
218
55
57
16
57,931

%

Shares held
Millions

0.01

4.82
92.81
2.36
100

0

3,858
118
50
4,026

%

0.00

95.83
2.93
1.24
100

%

Shares held

%  

342,567
16.75
1,173,832
13.50
4,779,374
25.46
6,839,050
16.13
10,312,189
12.36
15,782,502
8.75
12,475,502
3.04
26,494,263
2.24
14,519,710
0.35
85,237,666
0.58
102,507,496
0.24
515,531,303
0.38
385,951,569
0.09
0.10 1,228,691,404
0.03 1,614,776,767
100 4,025,409,194

0.01
0.03
0.12
0.17
0.26
0.40
0.31
0.66
0.36
2.12
2.55
12.81
9.59
30.52
40.11
100

169

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVShareholder InformationShareholder Information continued

Registrars and transfer office
All administrative enquiries relating to shareholdings and 
requests to receive corporate documents should, in the 
first instance, be directed to Capita Asset Services, The 
Registry, 34 Beckenham Road, Beckenham, BR3 4TU.

They can be contacted by telephone on 

from the UK (calls cost 10 pence per minute plus network 
charges) or 1 890 946 375 for Ireland lo-call and +44(0) 203 
367 2686 from outside the UK. Lines are open Monday to 
Friday 8.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

www.capitadeal.com

0871 664 0300

(calls cost 10 pence per minute plus network charges) from 
the UK and 

+44 20 8639 3399

ShareGift
ShareGift is a charity share donation scheme for 
shareholders who may wish to dispose of a small quantity 
of shares where the market value makes it uneconomic to 
sell on a commission basis. The scheme is administered by 
the Orr Mackintosh Foundation and further information 
can be obtained by contacting them:

from outside the UK. Lines are open Monday to Friday  
9.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

Alternatively you could email them at: 

020 7930 3737

www.sharegift.org

Share price information
The current price of ITV plc ordinary shares is available on 
the Company website: 

www.itvplc.com

Unsolicited mail
The Company is legally obliged to make its register of 
members available to the public. As a consequence of 
this some shareholders might receive unsolicited mail. 
Shareholders wishing to limit the amount of such mail 
should write to the Mailing Preference Service (MPS):

FREEPOST 29 LON20771 
London  
W1E 0ZT

Alternatively you can register online or request an 
application form by telephone or by email. MPS will then 
notify the bodies that support its service that you do not 
wish to receive unsolicited mail.

0845 703 4599

www.mpsonline.org.uk

mps@dma.org.uk

shareholderenquiries@capita.co.uk

Shareholders who receive duplicate sets of Company 
mailings because they have multiple accounts should write 
to Capita to have the accounts amalgamated.

By logging on to www.capitashareportal.com shareholders 
can benefit from a number of online services as follows:
•	 Cast your proxy vote online;
•	 Elect to receive shareholder communication electronically;
•	 View your holding balance, indicative share price and 

valuation;

•	 View transactions on your holding and dividend payments 

you have received;

•	 Update your address or register a bank mandate 

instruction to have dividends paid directly to your bank 
account; and

•	 Access a wide range of shareholder information including 

downloadable forms.

You will need your investor code (IVC) which can be found on 
your share certificate(s) to register to use the Shareholder 
Portal.

Share dealing services
The Company’s shares can be traded through most banks, 
building societies and stockbrokers. Additionally, the 
Company’s Registrars offer online and telephone dealing for 
UK resident shareholders through Capita IRG Trustees Limited. 
To use this service shareholders should contact Capita:

0871 664 0454 

170

sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Shareholder InformationShareholder Information
Glossary

Registered office
The London Television Centre 
Upper Ground 
London  
SE1 9LT

020 7157 3000

Company registration number 4967001

Company website
Investor and shareholder-related information can be found 
on the Company website at:

If you deal with an unauthorised firm, you will not be 
eligible to receive payment under the Financial Services 
Compensation Scheme. 

Details of any sharedealing facilities that the Company 
endorses will only be included in Company mailings. 

Keep in mind that it is very unlikely that an authorised firm 
that you have no relationship with would contact you out 
of the blue offering to buy or sell shares or offer other 
investment opportunities.

More detailed information can be found on the FCA 
website:

www.itvplc.com

www.fca.org.uk

www.fca.org.uk/consumers/protect-yourself

Identity theft
Tips for protecting your ITV plc shares:
•	 Ensure all your certificates are kept in a safe place or hold 

your shares electronically in CREST via a nominee.
•	 Keep all correspondence from Capita in a safe place, or 

destroy correspondence by shredding.

•	 If you change address inform Capita in writing or via the 
Shareholder Portal. If you receive a letter from Capita 
regarding a change of address but have not recently 
moved please contact them immediately.

•	 Consider having your dividend paid directly into your bank. 
This will reduce the risk of the cheque being intercepted 
or lost in the post.

•	 If you change your bank account, inform Capita of the 
details of your new account. You can do this via post or 
online using the Shareholder Portal. Respond to any 
letters Capita sends you about this.

•	 If you are buying or selling shares only deal with brokers 

registered in your country of residence or the UK.

Financial calendar
Ex-dividend date for the Final and Special 
dividend

 30 April 015

Record date for the Final and Special dividend  1 May 2015
14 May 2015
Annual General Meeting
14 May 2015
Interim Management Statement
Payment date for the Final and Special 
Dividend
Half year results announcement

29 May 2015
29 July 2015

Unauthorised brokers (boiler room scams)
Shareholders are advised to be wary of any unsolicited 
advice, offers to buy shares at a discount or offers of free 
company reports. These are typically from overseas based 
brokers who target UK shareholders offering to sell them 
what often turn out to be worthless or high risk shares in 
US or UK investments. These operations are commonly 
known as boiler rooms.

If you receive any unsolicited investment advice:
•	 Make sure you get the correct name of the person and 

organisation.

•	 Check that they are properly authorised by the FCA 

before getting involved by visiting:

www.fsa.gov.uk/register/home.do

•	 Report the matter to the FCA either by calling their 

Consumer Helpline on 0800 111 6768 or by completing 
an online form at:

www.fca.org.uk/scams

•	 If the calls persist, hang up.

171

sluglinear2014.itvplc.comStock code: ITVShareholder InformationGlossary

Broadcasters’ Audience Research Board (BARB) – 
organisation owned by broadcasters and advertisers 
providing data on television viewing statistics in UK 
households 

Catch up viewing – non-live viewing of recently broadcast 
television programmes, either via a recording device (often 
called a PVR or DTR) such as Sky+ or through a Video on 
Demand service such as ITV Player, BBC iPlayer, 4oD or 
Demand 5 

Channel 3 licences – the 15 regional licences and one 
national licence awarded to transmit Channel 3 across the 
UK. All are owned by ITV with the exception of three of the 
regional licences, two of which are owned by STV and one 
by UTV

Contract Rights Renewal (CRR) – the remedy agreed by 
Carlton and Granada in 2003 as a pre-condition of the 
merger, which governs the way in which ITV airtime is sold  
by ITV to its advertising customers

Digital switchover – termination in 2012 of the analogue 
terrestrial television signal in the regions in which it is still 
broadcast. BBC1, BBC2, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5 were 
broadcast in analogue

Free-to-Air (FTA) television – viewing of television 
through devices not requiring monthly subscriptions such 
as the Freeview or Freesat services

High Definition (HD) – channels or services broadcast in 
substantially higher resolution than standard, providing 
improved picture quality

Impact or Commercial Impact – one Commercial 
Impact is defined as one viewer watching one 30-second 
television commercial

ITV Family – the ITV family of channels which includes 
ITV, ITV2, ITV3, ITV4, ITVBe, ITV Encore, CITV, ITV Breakfast, 
CITV Breakfast and all associated +1 and HD equivalents. 
Viewing figures include the whole of the ITV network. 
Revenue figures include only ITV plc operated regions 

Linear television –  television service where the viewer 
has to watch a scheduled TV program at the particular 
time it’s offered, and on the particular channel it’s 
presented on

Long form video requests – video requests are a measure 
of the total number of videos viewed across all platforms 
(such as itv.com, Virgin and mobile devices). A long 
form video is a programme that has been broadcast on 
television and is available to watch online and on demand 
in its entirety

Media sales – commission earned by ITV plc on sales of 
airtime on behalf of the non-consolidated licensees 

Net Advertising Revenue (NAR) – the amount of money 
received by a broadcaster as payment for television spot 
advertising net of any commission paid to agencies 

Network Programme Budget (NPB) – the budget spent 
on programming broadcast on the ITV channel, excluding 
spend on regional programming and ITV Breakfast

Non-consolidated licensees – the three regional channel 
3 licences which ITV does not own. These licences are 
owned by STV and UTV and revenues received from these 
licences for ITV programming content are referred to as 
minority revenues

Non-NAR revenue – non-NAR revenue includes all ITV 
revenue, both internal and external, except net advertising 
revenue (NAR). This includes inter-segment revenue from 
the sale of ITV Studios shows to the ITV Network

Ofcom – the regulator established to govern UK 
broadcasting as well as other areas of the media and 
telephony industry

SDN – multiplex operator owned by ITV which operates 
one of the six digital terrestrial multiplex licences in the UK 
that make up Freeview

Share of Broadcast (SOB) – ITV’s share of UK television 
advertising revenue (NAR), a measure of market share

Share of Commercial Impacts (SOCI) – the term used to 
define the share of total UK television commercial impacts 
which is delivered by one channel or group of channels. 
This measure excludes viewing of BBC channels as they 
do not generate commercial impacts. Unless stated 
otherwise, SOCI figures cited throughout this report are 
based on BARB data and are based on the universe of 
Adults (16+)

Share of Viewing (SOV) – the share of the total viewing 
audience during a defined period gained by a programme 
or channel. This measure includes viewing of BBC channels. 
Unless stated otherwise, SOV figures cited throughout 
this report are based on BARB data and are based on the 
universe of individuals

Video on Demand (VOD) – the ability to deliver video 
content to a customer’s television set, computer or device 
when the customer requests it 

YouView – a joint venture (with the BBC, Channel 4, 
Channel 5, British Telecom, TalkTalk, and Arqiva) to operate 
and promote a hybrid television platform combining 
Freeview channels with catch up and on demand services

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sluglineITV plc Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2014Shareholder InformationThis Annual Report is printed by an FSC® (Forest Stewardship 
Council), certified printer using vegetable based inks. 

This report has been printed on Claro Silk, a white coated paper and 
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www.itv.com
Investors:
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Stock code: ITV

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