Studio Managers have the responsibility of managing the studio facilities for recording productions, from photo shoots to films. A Studio Manager should have an in-depth understanding of the technology in the studio – this enables the Studio Manager to be able to advise clients and sell the facility. Either the company ‘dry hires’ and the client supplies its own crew, or the manager helps arrange an external team. Studios are costly facilities, therefore its vital the manager seeks new business leads to keep the studio ruining.

The manager may be required to do a whole range of tasks – set the rate card (the daily or hourly cost to hire the studio), secure new clients, ensure each production runs smoothly, recruit staff and oversees health and safety.

What are some of their responsibilities?

• Rate Cards – setting a daily or hourly cost of hiring the studio out
• In-depth understanding of the technology in the studios – knowledgeable on the equipment, IT systems and facilities in the studio and keep up to date with the available technology
• Being able to provide freelance crew for a variety of roles
• Ensure health and safety standards are being upheld – know the legal requirements around keeping a production safe; ensure the wellbeing of those who hire the studio
• Making sure the recording productions are running smoothly and offer technical advice where needed
• Find and secure new clients for the studio – being able to market the studio, answer any questions related to the studio and able to negotiate rates
• Host tours and ‘open days’ of facilities – showcase the studios to bring in more clientele

Who do Studio Manager s work alongside?

• Producers
• Studio coordinators
• Studio assistants
• Clients that hire the studio

What makes a great Studio Manager?

An in-depth understanding of the business and the technical requirements of productions in a studio. Also, an awareness of the latest technology available for the studio, as well as trends in the industry.  Have a keen business sense for marketing the studio, negotiating with clients, and taking care of the finances.

How do I become a Studio Manager?

• No specific qualification is required to become a Studio Manager . It may, however, be beneficial to gain qualifications and experience in the TV/Film industry – degrees may offer training in the relevant technology, and enable dedicated time to building a network of contacts. Most universities have strong links with the film and TV industries (https://www.bradford.ac.uk/courses/ug/film-and-television-production-ba/)

Networking

There are different ways to network –

• Attending events is a fantastic way to meet people in person
• LinkedIn – make connections!
• Facebook Pages – join a group and they will post jobs and advice!
• Talk to your connections about work – sell yourself!

Work Experience

• If you are lacking in experience you can always reach out to production studios – Some studios offer apprenticeship opportunities. These experiences offer opportunities to build up your CV, you can also enquire with them to see if they offer anything further work experience opportunities that may help! Make sure to ask questions (https://britishfilmcommission.org.uk/plan-your-production/studios/)
• For work experience opportunities – you can reach out to film and TV studios. Broadcasters such the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Sky have great programmes for beginners.

Outside of the Industry

• Event management roles and Coordination of venues – a strong transferable skill is having experience of managing different projects at a fixed location and gaining the skills to communicate and sell that service.
• Volunteering at festivals to help coordinate the setup of stages and sound equipment – Ginger Owl are a great contact for this, they work in the event space and working with them would offer opportunities to build your CV with Festivals and Live events (https://gingerowl.co.uk/index.php/contact/)
• Work that gives you a proven track record in sales in a related industry, such as hotels, conferences and IT, is useful.

How do I book a Studio Manager ?

If you would like to enhance your project, here at Yellow Cat we have a wide network of talented Studio Managers to suit all client needs. We have a rich talent pool for clients to hire both freelance and permanent Studio Managers. For more information regarding Studio Managers, their market rate (salary and day rate), and the availability of freelance Studio Managers, please contact us.