Answers

1. Mike Ford
Producer at Infinite Wisdom Films
Films Produced: Base, Pudsey Caterpillar (RTS award winner – best short film)
What is producing like as a career?
It’s tough and varied. In my case you’re in charge of authoring the projects and winning the
work so you don’t have anyone else to rely on to keep the bank account topped up. But you
also get the satisfaction of seeing projects that you’ve originated come to fruition.
How did you get to that point?
I left school after A-Levels, I did 12 months at University and took part in TVYP (Television
For Young People) now called ‘The Network’ as part of the Edinburgh TV Festival. I then
trained at Light House Media Centre in Wolverhampton for 12 months, worked freelance in
various production roles after that and decided to pursue some development money from the
regional screen agency at the time, Screen WM. I was successful and continued from there.
What would you say is the best career path to take in order to get to being a
producer?
There’s no one-size fits all. Some people go to Uni. Some start as a Production Asst. in
TV/Film companies and work up. I went a very indie route learning as I went. It depends what
you want to do and what life commitments you have – mortgages/family etc.
Do you feel a sense of accomplishment at the end of a production?
Definitely. And proud if it’s worked out. Or disappointed if it’s not quite what you’d hoped for.
It’s like all things in life, you win some, you lose some and you try and improve next time
around.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the role
You have to be organised and pro-active. Producers can’t wait for things to happen or come
to them. Your job is to make it happen. You get to lead and be in charge but you also get the
negatives that come with that. You work long hours and your first to arrive and last to leave
and normally have things to do when everyone else has stopped.
Is it stressful/hard work?
Yes. But most Producers thrive on some of that (we’re weird that way).
Do you tend to work hands on in productions?

2. It depends what you define as hands on. You’re in the thick of it. You’re willing to get stuck in.
I’m working on VR projects at the moment where I’m far more active than I would normally be
with technology and the shoot. Other times I might be sat watching from a distance working
on the budget on my laptop or I’m doubling as an AD (Asst. Director) making sure my shoot
I’ve set-up runs to time.
Do you consider producing as a profitable venture?
It can be. You’re running a business so you’re either a successful business owner and you’re
making lots of money or you’re struggling through trying to pay the bills. There are a lot more
examples of the latter but it’s not impossible.
What, in your opinion, is the best part of the job?
I’m my own boss. Generally, I win the argument.
Which is the worst part?
I’m my own boss. If I “can’t be bothered” normally something suffers because no one covers
for you as the Producer. Sometimes you just want a break.
Have you enjoyed all of the productions you have worked on
No. But you’d be hard pressed to find anyone who has enjoyed every job or role they’ve ever
had in their career and if you they have then hats off to them.