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TV/Film Producer

Do you want to become a TV/Film Producer? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

TV/film producers are responsible for overseeing filmed productions. They combine their financial, organisational and business skills to manage the process from the initial idea right through to when a production is finally ready to be broadcast on television or screened in the cinema.

This work can involve:

• developing an idea for a future film or television production
• finding financial backing and preparing budgets
• recruiting production staff and casting performers
• making sure everything stays on schedule and within budget during filming
• liaising with the director, editor, and production and post-production staff.

Producers work long and irregular hours, including evenings and weekends. Time may be spent in offices at the beginning of a project. However, once a production is underway, producers are out on location or in studios. This may involve early starts and late finishes. The job may involve travel, sometimes overseas.

Earnings may range from around £18,000 for those starting out, to around £70,000 for very experienced producers. Producers are usually self-employed.

TV/film producers must:

• be truly passionate about film and television
• have an in-depth knowledge of the television/film industry
• have technical knowledge of the film-making process
• have good business and negotiation skills
• be good at building and motivating teams
• be able to network and build contacts within the industry.

TV/film producers may work with film studios, independent production companies and television broadcasters. Most work in the London area, although there are good regional opportunities. There are about 15,000 TV/film producers in the UK, of whom around half are self-employed. Entry to TV and film jobs is very competitive.

Most TV/film producers have a degree or an HND. Some do a postgraduate qualification in film or television, for example at one of the Screen Academies supported by Skillset, the Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries. Experience gained through relevant holiday jobs or involvement with film clubs or theatre groups while at school or college is very useful. Some producers start in a junior position, such as researcher or runner, and work their way up the ladder.

Some producers train on the job, such as on a training scheme with a broadcaster or production company. A range of short courses are available in film and television.

Producers may progress to senior roles such as executive producer, set up their own production companies or move into areas such as directing. Some work overseas.

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