Tv Or Film Producer

Typical Salary

To

Typical Hours

39 to 41 irregular

evenings / weekends / bank holidays away from home

How To Become a Tv Or Film Producer

You can get into this job through:

a university course
college course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role
a broadcaster training scheme
specialist courses run by p

College / University

You could do a degree in film or media production before applying for work with a production company.

2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

You could start by doing a college course, which may help you to get a job as a production assistant or runner. With experience, you could then move on to become a producer. Courses include:

Level 3 Diploma in Creative Media Production
Level 3 Diploma in Film and Television Production

4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

Apprenticeship

You could start by doing a broadcast production assistant advanced apprenticeship and work your way up to a producer role.

5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Routes into this Career

A common way to get into this job is to work your way up from an entry level role such as:

runner
programme researcher
production administrator

Other Routes

Broadcasters like the BBC and Channel 4 offer training schemes. Find out more from:

Some private training providers, film schools and agencies run short courses in production skills.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

knowledge of media production and communication
the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
knowledge of English language
leadership skills
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
the ability to use your initiative
to be flexible and open to change
the ability to organise your time and workload
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Day To Day Tasks

You may:

decide which projects to produce, or create programme ideas yourself
read scripts
identify sources of funding and raise finances
work out what resources are needed
check and approve locations
pitch to television broadcasters to commission your programme
plan filming schedules
hire staff, cast and crew
manage cash flow, schedule and budget
work with marketing companies and distributors

Working Environment

You could work at a TV studio, in an office, at a film studio or on a film set.

Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and you may spend nights away from home.

Career Path & Progression

With experience, you could become an executive producer, or set up your own production company.

Volunteering Opportunities

You'll be expected to get practical industry experience through activities like:

student film and TV
work experience placements
hospital or community radio

Search for film and TV companies to approach for experience through media business listing services such as PACT and The Knowledge.

Tips & Information

Career tips

You'll need a lot of experience in both the creative and business sides of film or programme making. You'll also need an in-depth understanding of the production process, and a good network of contacts in the industry.

Professional and industry bodies

You can join The Production Guild, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

Find out more about becoming a TV or film producer from ScreenSkills and ProductionBase.

Find out more about creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.

Restrictions & Requirements

Restrictions & Requirements are not listed for this job.