The primary role of a television producer is to coordinate and control all aspects of production, ranging from show idea development and cast hiring to shoot supervision and fact-checking. It is often the producer who is responsible for the show's overall quality and survivability, though the roles depend on the particular show or organization.
Some producers take more of an executive role, in that they conceive new programs and pitch them to the networks, but upon acceptance they focus on business matters such budgets and contracts. Other producers are more involved with the day-to-day workings, participating in activities such as screenwriting, set design, casting, and even directing.
Different types of producers in the industry today include: * Executive producer (the ultimate boss) * Associate producer (runs day-to-day operations) * Co-producer (works with other producers) * Coordinating producer (coordinates two or more producers) * Supervising producer (supervises other producers) * Segment producer (handles one segment of a program) * Line producer (handles a practical aspect, rather than creative content)
Key trait characteristics for producers include organization, attention to detail, clear communication skills, and thinking on one's feet.
Recommended college course work and/or work experience should include English, history, political science, journalism, and business studies.
