What does a Television Producer do?
A Television Producer manages both the creative and administrative aspects of a television show’s production from pre-production to post-production. This includes a number of responsibilities, such as making financial decisions, like creating a budget and raising the necessary funds, handling negotiations and contracts, hiring a television crew, and creating a production schedule.
Television Producers often have the final say or heavy input in creative aspects of the production as well, such as its script, sets, editing, costumes, and talent. They keep the show’s production on track by supervising the entire project and holding regular meetings with the director and other executives to discuss progress and adherence to the budget and schedule.
Television Producer skills and qualifications
Television Producers need to be creative to think of and develop new television shows. They must also hold the following prerequisite skills and qualifications to perform their duties effectively:
- Strong leadership skills
- Ability to plan budgets and schedules strategically
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Able to multi-task and manage time well
- Experience using television equipment, such as cameras and microphones
- Willing to work with and motivate a team
- Understanding of common writing and editing software, such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Television Producer experience requirements
As a Television Producer is an executive role in the TV and film industry, candidates need prior experience. Many candidates seek internships or co-op programs with their school to break into the film and television industry. This leads them to an entry-level role in television or film as a Production Assistant or something similar to get formal work experience.
Experience in a leadership role is also important for Television Producers, so becoming a Production Manager is the next best step. After three to five years of experience in the industry, candidates may consider creating a portfolio to apply for Television Producer roles. A portfolio with independent short films or videos that the candidate produced is a great way to see their experience.
Television Producer education and training requirements
Television Producer candidates require a strong educational background in order to create and oversee successful productions. A bachelor’s degree or college diploma in broadcasting, television and film production, film studies, or a related field is typically necessary for Television Producer candidates. You should consider candidates with a postgraduate degree in a similar field an asset as well.
Job salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Television Producer in Canada is $75,494 per year. This salary varies based on the company, experience, and location.
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