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TV or film producer

Alternative titles for this job include

TV and film producers plan and manage the business side of creating television programmes and films.

Average salary (a year)

Variable

Typical hours (a week)

39 to 41 irregular

You could work

evenings / weekends / bank holidays away from home

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

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 private training providers

University

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.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

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

More Information

College

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
  • T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level

More Information

Apprenticeship

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

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

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

More Information

Work

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

Volunteering

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.

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.

More 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 Discover Creative Careers.

What it takes

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.

What it takes

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

What you’ll do

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

What you'll do

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 and progression

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

Career path and progression

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

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

We can't find any apprenticeship vacancies in England for a TV or film producer right now.

The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply.

Courses In England

Media, Film & TV Production

  • Provider: BIG CREATIVE TRAINING LTD
  • Start date: 09 September 2024
  • Location: LONDON

Film and TV Production: Diploma

  • Provider: BLESSED THOMAS HOLFORD CATHOLIC COLLEGE
  • Start date: 01 September 2024
  • Location: Altrincham

Jobs In the United Kingdom

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