The typical hierarchy of film, television and theatre production is:
- Executive Producers finance film projects, or create (and sometimes write) television shows. They may have the rights or options to an intellectual property, and hire a producer to execute the project. They are usually not involved in day-to-day set operations, other than items affecting the budget
- Producers are the top of the reporting structure on set. They are responsible for managing the budget and logistics of the day-to-day operations of a production
- Associate Producers are second in commend on set. For films, associate producers may be in charge of capturing certain non-actor segments of film, or handling the filming of segments in particular countries
- Line Producers manage tasks related to specific areas (units) of production
No two projects are exactly the same but, in general, producers:
- Execute an Executive Producer’s idea for a film, theatre production, radio program or television show
- Obtain the rights to a script, if necessary
- find financial backing for the venture
- Hire key senior staff, including directors, writers and production crew
- Oversee budgets, schedules and plans
- Coordinate day-to-day production off and on the set or stage
- See that all post-production work is completed
- Negotiate with distributors and broadcasters
- Promote the film, production or program
Producers usually work closely with directors and production managers to hire actors and production crew members. They negotiate salary and conditions of employment, and must be familiar with minimum wages and working conditions established by relevant unions and associations. Producers approve each department’s costs, from lighting equipment to travel budgets.
Distribution is an important concern for producers. Advance press materials are sent out before the show is completed or opens on stage. For film or television, often a short promotional version (trailer) or clip (teaser) is sent out for preview. Producers must then do follow-up calls and sometimes participate in promotional tours and media interviews.
Once a show is running or released, producers:
- Wrap up all of the elements related to the project
- Ensure that any investors are paid back from box office earnings
- Distribute applicable residual payments to artists
- Administer the business concerns of the project
Film producers may produce commercials, TV programs, industrial training films, promotional films, music videos or documentaries. They must be familiar with provincial and federal film and television grants and tax credit programs. Extensive research and paperwork may be required when writing proposals to bid on projects and win contracts.
Radio producers usually are assigned a specific show. For example, a producer may be in charge of a local morning show or an afternoon talk show. In general, they:
- Determine program content (within station guidelines)
- Supervise researchers, writers and production assistants
- Ensure expenditures do not exceed a set budget
Radio producers also may work in the control room directing the music and information portions of the program.
Television producers are responsible for the conception, direction, production and completion of television programs within budget limitations. At larger operations, producers may specialize in news, entertainment or commercials. At smaller stations, they may assume responsibility for several programs. Producers may have some input into hiring on-air staff.
Theatrical producers coordinate the production of live plays and musicals. The producer’s office books venues for plays, sometimes in more than one city. Dinner theatres have theatrical producers who produce shows strictly as commercial properties.
