What Is a Production Manager and How to Become One

A production manager in a manufacturing facility is responsible for ensuring all equipment is in working order, as well as procuring materials and parts necessary to keep the facility functioning. You supervise workers and assistant managers to ensure productivity. Production managers in the film and TV industry perform a different function, where they deal with the financial aspects of a production, as well as logistical details like ensuring travel arrangements for the crew and cast.

A TV and film production manager is the person responsible for making sure all aspects of film production are going according to plan and schedule. Your duties are to keep track of the budget and compare it with the expenditures, as well as to keep track of the progress of filming and keep everything in order. Production managers typically do not have a creative role in the filmmaking process; they are more focused on the logistical planning of the endeavor by coordinating others’ efforts. Another one of your responsibilities as film production manager is to obtain permits for filming on location. There are no formally required qualifications to be a film production manager, but most possess at least a bachelor’s degree in film or theater, along with experience on a movie set.

A good production manager can maintain sight of the goals of the production team, keep everyone on task, and ensure all activities fall within budget or quota. You should know how to provide positive motivation to your employees to keep the project running smoothly. A good production manager knows how to communicate thoughts and ideas clearly to different audiences. You are skilled at planning and coordination. You also must be exceptional at time management; movie studios, in particular, expect films to be made according to a strict deadline. In manufacturing facilities, you also have to manage your time and your crew’s time appropriately to meet product demands.

A production manager in manufacturing maintains records of material counts, employee quotes, and more. In this position, your duties are to keep the facility working at the capacity requested by your supervisor. You order new equipment to streamline efficiency, hire or terminate employees as needed, and attempt to make the production methods more effective at cutting waste and increasing output. You coordinate the efforts of floor supervisors and workers.

Job Summary

We are seeking a reliable, motivated production manager to join our growing organization. In this position, you will utilize your experience, leadership and communication skills to direct team members. You must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines to produce quality products safely and cost-effectively while preserving a positive attitude and providing excellent customer service.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Follow and enforce all established policies, procedures, and recognized practices
• Oversee production schedule; assign and oversee all projects
• Estimate costs and follow budgets accordingly
• Resolve any issues; handle maintenance work when necessary
• Meet and exceed all customer service requirements
• Assist in taking physical inventories following corporate procedures
• Coordinate with the maintenance manager on the preventative and emergency maintenance required for operational equipment

Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and/or related operations experience
• 5+ years' experience in a supervisory or management role
• Demonstrated leadership skills in a manufacturing environment
• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills