TV and film producers look after the business side of productions.
39 to 41 irregular
evenings / weekends / bank holidays away from home
You can get into this job through:
You could do a degree in film or media production before applying for work with a production company.
You'll find it helpful to take a course that includes practical skills, work placements and the chance to make industry contacts.
You'll usually need:
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:
You'll usually need:
You could start by doing a broadcast production assistant advanced apprenticeship and work your way up to a producer role.
You'll usually need:
A common way to get into this job is to start as a runner and work your way up. Producers of factual programmes often start as programme researchers or journalists.
You may also be able to start in a production office role like an administrator and learn on the job.
In film, you'll usually start as a runner then move on to become a production co-ordinator, line producer and production manager.
A different route is to work your way through 3rd, 2nd and 1st assistant director roles with a media production company.
You'll be expected to get as much practical industry experience as you can through activities like:
You can search for film and TV companies to approach for experience through media business listing services like PACT and The Knowledge.
You may be able to get training through one of the new entrant training schemes that broadcasters like the BBC and Channel 4 offer. Other opportunities may be available through regional film agencies. You can find out more from:
You could also take short courses in production skills run by film schools, regional screen agencies and private training providers.
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.
You can join The Production Guild, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
You can find out more about becoming a TV or film producer from ScreenSkills and ProductionBase.
You'll need:
Your day-to-day duties might include:
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'll travel often and spend nights away from home.