Producer

The producer oversees the entire film or television production. Either employed by a production company or working independently, producers plan and coordinate various aspects of film production, such as: selecting the script; coordinating writing, directing, and editing; arranging financing; and supervising the pre-production, production and post-production stages of filmmaking., including financing, budgeting and hiring.

Recommended Skills for working as a Producer:

  • Organization / Scheduling - producers are often responsible for hiring and keeping the project on track

  • Budgeting - producers help set a budget for every department and then track spending as well. 

  • Problem Solving - producers are responsible for removing roadblocks and coming up with new plans that get around problems.

  • Managing teams

  • Negotiating

  • Networking

  • Creativity

A combination of demonstrated skills such as time and people management, diplomacy, and knowledge of workplace safety guidelines and union contracts is essential.

+ VP of Production/Head of Production

The VP/Head of Production ensures that all productions within the company are delivered on time, on budget and within the parameters of all related contracts.

+ Line Producer

The Line Producer delivers a production on time and on budget. Reporting to the Producers, they are responsible for approving all costs, updating all schedules and issuing cost reports to the VP/Head of Production. They manage day-to-day aspects of a production including the safety, insurance, location, equipment and crew needs of a show. They are responsible for executing all agency, vendor and crew contracts, as well as the hiring and firing of all production crew.

+ Series Producer

The Series Producer executes the creative vision of a show put forth by the Executive Producers at the company and network. They manage the relationship between the production company and network as it relates to the specific show, including but not limited to: any feedback re: the rough and fine cuts; crew,;style of directing; shooting; and all creative elements of the show such as graphics and music. Seen as the “boss” and leader of any show, the Series Producer is expected to deal with any conflicts arising (ie: crew conflicts, vendor and talent issues), in tandem with the Line Producer.

+ Story Producer

The Story Producer prepares the beat sheet and script before production and outlines the beats the directors have to hit. They are generally paid per script and should get credit as writer. This role is typically found in documentary and docudrama productions.

+ Associate Producer/ Field Producer

The Associate Producer/Field Producer creatively produces some or all segments of a show in “the field” as directed by the Series Producer. They are responsible for expertly researching information, contacting and interviewing people/talent and sometimes securing locations as per the needs of the show. They are responsible for sourcing and fact-checking their information and may support the director in the field as needed, including but not limited to additional directing, assisting with crafting story in the field and managing talent/ interviewees. NOTE: these types of creative functions are what should distinguish an Associate Producer from a Researcher.

 

Requirements for working as a Producer:

  • Training in film and TV production, communications, or a related field.

  • Film Training Manitoba: Set Orientation

  • Business, accounting, law or financing degree/course are recommended but not required.

 

For further information:

 

Questions?

Fill out On Screen Manitoba’s Workforce Development Intake Form to schedule a consultation with the Workforce Development Liaison.