A production manager is responsible for overseeing the manufacturing process of a product, from start to finish and are in charge of ensuring that the production runs smoothly, efficiently and safely, while also meeting quality standards and deadlines. A production manager will typically manage a team of workers, liaise with suppliers and customers, and be involved in budgeting and cost control. This role requires strong leadership skills, attention to detail, and the ability to problem-solve under pressure. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in production management, an apprenticeship can provide valuable hands-on experience and training.
Production manager roles & responsibilites
As a production management apprentice, you will be responsible for supporting the production manager in overseeing the manufacturing process of a product. Your role will involve ensuring that the production runs smoothly, efficiently and safely, while also meeting quality standards and deadlines. You will work closely with the production team, liaise with suppliers and customers, and assist in budgeting and cost control. Your responsibilities may include preparing production schedules or script breakdowns, managing resources including personnel, and providing support to the creative team to realise their vision. You will need to have strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to problem-solve under pressure. An apprenticeship in production management can provide valuable hands-on experience and training, allowing you to develop your skills and progress in your career.
Production Managers Jobs
- Production Manager
- Assistant Production Manager
- Line Producer
- Production Coordinator
- Post-Production Supervisor
- Location Manager
- Unit Production Manager
- Production Accountant
- VFX Producer
- Casting Director
- Costume Designer
- Set Designer
- Grip/Electrician
- Art Director
- Special Effects Supervisor
Production management entry requirements
The admission criteria for a Level 7 apprenticeship in production management may differ based on the programme and training provider. However, most applicants will need to have:
- A suitable degree or certification in a connected field e.g. film, television, media, or business management.
- Relevant industrial job experience, ideally in a production management or similar capacity.
- Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving abilities.
- The capacity to operate effectively under duress and fulfil deadlines.
- Computer literacy and competency with applications such as Microsoft Office and project management tools are required.
As part of the selection process, certain apprenticeship programmes may require candidates to pass an aptitude test or attend an interview.
Apprentices must have at least a Level 2 in English and Mathematics before completing their End Point Assessment to successfully finish their apprenticeship. The minimal prerequisite for persons with an education, health and care plan, or legacy statement is Entry Level 3. Furthermore, for people whose first language is not English, British Sign Language credentials can be used as a substitute to English qualifications. Apprentices who do not satisfy the Level 2 English and Math requirements must do so before taking the end-of-course assessment.
Apprenticeship core elements
This is a core apprenticeship standard; all learners will complete the core component of the apprenticeship and then select one of four major creative production areas listed below:
- Production Accounting: involves a team of accountants embedded within production departments. Responsible for managing financial control and providing support to complex productions.
- Production Manager in Film, TV and Short Form Production: leads the production team. Manages logistics and workflow processes from pre-production to final content delivery.
- Post Production Manager: oversees the scheduling and workflow of VFX, post-production and animation projects. Leads the production team, and may manage budget and client-facing responsibilities.
- Production Manager in Live Performance Art Production: supports the Technical Director. Ensures efficient use of resources and systems for technical design elements within budget, time and technical parameters, including non-traditional venues.
In conclusion, undertaking an apprenticeship in production management can provide valuable hands-on experience and training, allowing you to develop your technical skills and progress in your career. As a production management apprentice, you will learn how to oversee the manufacturing process of a product, manage resources, and support the creative team’s vision. Technical skills such as organisational skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving under pressure are crucial for success in this field. With an apprenticeship, you can gain practical experience and knowledge that will prepare you for a fulfilling career in production management.
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