Producer

Producers play a key role in the film, television and video industries, dealing with the practical and business side of a project so others can concentrate on the creative side.

You would manage the production process from start to finish, organising resources and often coming up with the initial idea for a project.

On feature film and large-scale TV productions, they are part of a team of producers and may be responsible for just some of these duties. On a smaller production such as a documentary, they often do all of these tasks and may also direct the project.

There are often different levels of producers, with varying levels of management and control of the overall process, depending on size of production - roles include Senior Executive, Executive, Producer and Assistant.

The work might include: deciding which projects to produce, or coming up with programme ideas yourself; reading scripts; securing the rights for books or screenplays, or getting writers to produce new screenplays; raising finance for projects; bidding for television broadcasters to commission your programme; assessing what resources will be needed; and planning the schedule.

They are also involved: in hiring all the necessary technical resources and support services; recruiting key production staff and crew, and being involved with casting performers; editing scripts; managing cash flow; and making sure that the entire production stays on schedule and within budget.

Freelance producers are usually paid a fee for each individual contract or project. Rates can vary widely and you could negotiate fees based on the type of production, the budget available and your track record.

Contact the Broadcasting Entertainment Cinematograph and Theatre Union (BECTU) for current pay guidelines. Depending on your contract, you may also receive a percentage of the profits from a feature film.

To be a producer, you will need substantial experience in the creative and business sides of film or programme making. You will also need an in-depth understanding of the production process, and a network of contacts in the industry.

You could work your way up through the industry to become a producer in various ways. In television, you would usually start as a runner or production assistant. Producers of factual programmes often start as programme researchers or journalists.

Alternatively, you could progress through production office roles, starting with production secretary and assistant production coordinator. In film, you would usually start as a runner. You could then work your way up through the production office to production co-coordinator, line producer and production manager, or alternatively you could progress through the roles of 3rd, 2nd and 1st assistant director.

Before you can find an entry-level job in film or TV, you will be expected to build as much practical experience as you can, through activities like student film or TV, work experience placements, or hospital or community radio.

It is not essential to have studied film, video or media production before you look for work in the industry. However, you may find it helpful to take a course that includes practical skills, work placements and the chance to make contacts.

Many colleges and universities offer relevant courses at all levels – check with course providers for entry requirements. See Skillset’s website for details of industry-endorsed courses.