A producer has overall control of every aspect of a film's production from development through completion. They are responsible for bringing together the production team, creating an environment where talents can flourish, and ensuring the film's success. Producers get projects started, oversee all phases of production, secure funding, and may be involved in marketing and distribution. They work closely with directors and staff to complete projects on time and on budget. Famous producers include Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, and James Cameron.

1. JOB PROFILE:
PRODUCER
Producers have overall control on every aspect
of a film's production. They bring together and
approve the whole production team. Their key
responsibility is to create an environment where
the talents of the cast and crew can flourish.
Producers are accountable for the success of the
finished film. They steer the film from beginning
to completion and beyond.
The Producer is often the first person to get
involved in a project. Or they may be the agent-
style Producer who focuses on the deal. The
many responsibilities of the Producer span all
four phases of production. In the Development
stage, Producers are often responsible for
coming up with the idea for a production, or
selecting a screenplay. Producers secure the
rights, choose the screenwriter and story editing
team. They raise the development financing and
supervise the development process.
Producers play an integral role in the television,
film and video industries. In this role you will
oversee each project from conception to
completion and may also be involved in the
marketing and distribution process.
You'll work closely with directors and other
production staff on a shoot. Increasingly, you'll
also need to have directing skills to take charge
of all project operations. You'll arrange funding
for each project and keep the production within
the allocated budget.
RESPONSIBILITIES
INCLUDE:
raise funding
read, research and assess ideas and finished
scripts
commission writers or secure the rights to novels,
plays or screenplays
build and develop a network of contacts
liaise and discuss projects with financial backers -
projects can range from a small, corporate video
costing £500 to a multimillion-pound-budget
Hollywood feature film
use computer software packages for
screenwriting, budgeting and scheduling
hire key staff, including a director and a crew to
shoot programmes, films or videos
SALARY
Starting salaries for assistant producers
may range from around £18,000 to £25,000.
With experience, salaries can reach £40,000
to £55,000.
Departmental heads can earn £60,000 to
£80,000, plus benefits.
SKILLS:
EMPLOYERS:
FAMOUS PRODUCERS:
confidence in your ability
strong communication and people
skills
presentation and pitching skills
strong time and resource
management skills
creative ability
the ability to cope under pressure
a strong head for figures
leadership skills.
EMPLOYERS
&FAMOUS
PRODUCERS
BBC
BSkyB (British Sky Broadcasting
Group)
Channel 4
Channel 5
ITV
S4C (Wales)
Steven Spielberg (Jaws)
George Lucas(Star Wars)
Frank Marshall(Jason Bourne)
James Cameron (Avatar)
WHAT DOES A PRODUCER DO?