A Producer in the UK is responsible for overseeing and managing the creation of films, television programmes, radio shows, or other media projects. This role involves coordinating the creative, financial, and administrative aspects of a production. Producers work with directors, writers, technical crews, and actors to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to a high standard. Their duties include securing funding, hiring key staff, managing schedules, and resolving any issues that arise during production. Producers must have strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills, and often need to balance creative vision with practical constraints. The role can be demanding and requires flexibility, but it is also highly rewarding for those who enjoy bringing creative projects to life.
The average salary for a Producer in the UK ranges from £25,000 to £60,000 per year, depending on experience and the size of the production.
There are approximately 14,000 jobs in the UK film, TV, video, and radio industries where producer roles are found, according to Creative Skillset.
The UK film and television industry has seen growth of around 15 percent in production levels over the past five years, increasing opportunities for producers.
Oversees the production of scripted television dramas, managing budgets, schedules, and creative teams to bring stories to the screen.
Plans and manages the content and technical aspects of radio programmes, working with presenters and guests to deliver engaging broadcasts.
Coordinates all aspects of live events such as concerts, theatre productions, or festivals, ensuring smooth delivery and audience satisfaction.
Research the various types of producers, such as film, TV, theatre, and music producers, to understand their unique responsibilities.
Each type of producer works in a different area of the media industry. For example, a film producer oversees the making of movies, while a music producer helps create and record music tracks. Investigate which area interests you most by reading articles, watching interviews, and exploring online resources.
Participate in media-related workshops, open days, or events to meet professionals and gain insight into the industry.
Many organisations and schools offer workshops, panels, and networking events for aspiring producers. These events are a great way to ask questions, get advice, and make valuable contacts. Look for events at local theatres, film festivals, or music studios.
Get involved in school or community productions, or volunteer on student film, theatre, or music projects.
Hands-on experience is essential for understanding the practical aspects of producing. You could help organise a school play, assist on a student film set, or support a local music group. Even small roles, such as coordinating rehearsals or managing budgets, will help build your skills.
Develop communication, organisation, budgeting, and leadership skills through your studies and extracurricular activities.
Producers need to work well with creative teams, manage time efficiently, and handle finances. Take on leadership roles in clubs, help organise events, or practise budgeting for projects. These skills will be valuable in any producer role.
Consider studying media studies, film production, music technology, or a related subject at college or university.
While formal qualifications are not always required, many producers have degrees or diplomas in media or production. Courses often include practical projects and work placements, which are excellent for building experience and contacts.
Apply for junior positions such as production assistant or runner to get your foot in the door and learn from experienced producers.
Entry-level roles allow you to observe how producers work and start building your professional network. Be proactive, reliable, and eager to learn, as these qualities are often noticed and rewarded with more responsibility over time.
Directors are responsible for the creative vision of a film, television programme, or stage production, working closely with producers to bring scripts to life.
Production Managers handle the logistical and administrative side of productions, managing budgets, schedules, and resources to support the producer's plans.
Script Editors work with writers to develop scripts, ensuring they meet the requirements of the producer and the production team.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
Click on any card to be redirected to their vacancy page.
This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.
Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.
These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
The career title 'Producer' most closely matches 'TV or film producer' because both involve overseeing the development, coordination, and management of media productions. They require skills in project management, liaising with creative teams, and ensuring the smooth delivery of content within set deadlines and budgets.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a degree in film or television production before applying for work with a production company.
You'll find it helpful to take a course that includes practical skills and work placements, which will give you the chance to make industry contacts.
You'll usually need:
You could start by doing a college course, which may help you to get a job as a production assistant or runner. Courses include:
With experience, and further training, you could move on to become a producer.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could apply for a place on a Broadcast Production Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
This can take between 1 and 2 years to complete. It combines on-the-job training and time spent with a college or learning provider.
You'll usually need:
You could start out as a:
You may be able to move into production work as your skills and experience grow.
It's important to get as much practical production experience as you can, for example through:
You can search for film and TV companies to approach for opportunities through media business listing services, such as PACT and The Knowledge.
You may be able to join a training scheme to develop your skills and make contacts in the industry. Find out more from:
Some private training providers, film schools and agencies run short courses in production skills.
To do this job, you'll need a lot of experience in both the creative and business sides of film or programme making. You'll also need an in-depth understanding of the production process.
You can get advice about how to build a network of contacts in the industry, which may lead to training and work opportunities.
You can join The Production Guild, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Find out more about working in TV or film from:
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
