Studio Production: Producer, Studio Director, & Floor Manager

To prepare for the pitch and interview process, I did some research into the responsibilities of the three job roles I am going for.

JOB 1: SERIES PRODUCER/PRODUCER

They are responsible for overseeing production and making the programme happen. They will focus on content, style, and the people who contribute both on and off screen. This involves picking crews, and presenters. They should be able to guide and motivate the team throughout the whole production process.

As part of this role you are responsible for writing the running order and the script for the studio elements of the show. During the recording process they will sit next to the production assistant and help with timing, as well as communicating with the presenters via talkback to ensure all is going well, and they know all they need to know.

Responsibilities:

• Delegating tasks across the production crew.
• Monitoring progress and assisting when needed.
• Liaising with artists and talent.
• Checking budgets with the production manager.
• Overseeing the edits.
• Liaising with all parties involved in transmission.
• Working with the look of the programme (titles, graphics, music)
• Briefing and leading production meetings.
• Casting

JOB 2: STUDIO DIRECTOR

This person works closely with the producer, vision mixer, and production assistant to visually create the programme. They must be able to absorb information while following preset camera scripts and simultaneously monitoring programme content, performances and technical quality. To be a studio director you need to be clear and decisive, and you must know exactly what is going on at all times.

As the director you work with the producer to create the visual image of the show. They decide which shots are used and when they are used. The director cues everyone during the show using talkback. Although everyone should know what they are doing without a cue, things can change during a live show, and it is down to the director to communicate this to everyone.

JOB 3: FLOOR MANAGER

The floor manager acts as the communication link between the gallery and the studio. They are essentially a director on the studio floor. They are responsible for ensuring sets, props, wardrobe and technical equipment are safe, ready to use and in the right places prior to filming and during the live record. They also communicate with the audience and any guests to ensure they are seated and aware of what is going on.

As well as this they are responsible for safety in the studio and responsible for making sure everyone in the studio knows what they are doing and what is going on. They pass cues onto the presenters (like counting in from a VT). They act as the eyes in the studio for the people in the gallery and they pass on any information or potential problems. The assistant floor manager and runners answer to and assist the floor manager.

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These are the three roles I would like to go for, and now I know a bit more about what they involve, I can prepare and hopefully have all the answers during my pitch and possible job interview.