In this entry-level position, you’ll gain the skills and experience to progress your career into a number of specialisms across film, TV, radio and more.
As a production assistant / Runner, you’ll act as a general assistant, working under the direction of the producer and other production staff to undertake whatever basic tasks are required to ensure the smooth running of the production process.
This role provides the opportunity to gain vital experience and knowledge of the production process, offering valuable networking opportunities, and is often seen as the first step on the ladder for people aspiring to roles in broadcasting media.
R E S P O N S A B I L I T I E S
As a runner, you might be doing all or some of the following:
• Answer the telephone
• Deliver post to local clients
• Do photocopying and general administrative work
• Drive cars, vans or trucks between locations and around sets
• Fetch and carry items, such as equipment, tapes, cable and scripts
• Get everything in place for shoots
• Hand out post and messages to colleagues within the production team
• Help set up a location for a shoot
• Hire props
• Keep the set clean and tidy
• Make and hand out tea, coffee and lunches
• Make arrangements for staff on location, such as booking meeting rooms or ordering food
• Manage petty cash
• Look after guests
• Order stock
• Pick up cast for make-up calls
• Sort out the kit bags, for example checking that the camera bag contains all the necessary items
• Take messages
• Transcribe production tapes
• Transport cast, crew and production staff between offices, studios and shoot locations
• Transport scripts and hire equipment
• Undertake basic research
• Use maps, tapes and clapper boards, and other film and television production equipment
• Write down shot lists.
S A L A R Y
Depending on your skills and experience and the caliber of the production. You will be paid monthly.
For students who need a certificate of execution/Experience/Training for their university we will be happy to provide one (at the end of the project) along with your salary.
W O R K I N G H O U R S
Working hours tend to be long and unpredictable, often up to six days a week during production. Broadcasting is a 24-hour operation and the working style reflects this. You may have to work nights, weekends and public holidays.
Film and TV shoots often want to make the most of the daylight for filming, so early mornings and late nights are common.
W H A T T O E X P E C T
• Work takes place in offices and/or studios, as well as on location.
• Runners are expected to be prompt and efficient. Part of the job is to take the pressure off the person above you by doing things on their behalf and this can make the job quite challenging. However, the work is fast-moving and can be exciting, stimulating and diverse, with plenty of variety.
• The bigger production companies tend to be based in London and other large cities, such as Bristol, Cardiff, Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool. Production companies tend to recruit runners who live locally or who can be relied on at short notice.
• Most runners work on a freelance basis and are employed on full-time, short-term contracts. Short-term contracts and long hours can have lifestyle and financial implications. It’s a good idea to line up your next piece of work, while still working on the current project.
• Travel within a working day is common. You’re likely to spend a lot of time traveling to and from locations, picking people up from places such as airports and train stations, making local deliveries and doing any shopping that is needed.
Q U A L I F I C A T I O N S
There are no specific educational requirements for becoming a runner. However, a relevant film & TV or Advertising, degree or postgraduate qualification, particularly one with a practical focus, may increase your chances of success, as it can equip you with an understanding of the industry, practical skills, a work experience placement and useful contacts.if this is your first job, we will be training you ! So, It’s also possible to get into the role through an apprenticeship.
S K I L L S
You’ll need:
• An extra language other than your mother tongue language. Mostly English and or French and or Spanish.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent time management and organizational skills with the ability to work to tight deadlines
• Flexibility and the ability to think on your feet in order to find practical solutions to logistical problems
• The ability to prioritize efficiently
• Good research skills
• Initiative and problem-solving ability
• Physical stamina and resilience
• Team working skills
• The ability to network with a range of people (including actors, directors and caterers, among others)
• The ability to remain calm and perform well under pressure
• A proactive approach to work
• An understanding of the industry
• Enthusiasm and motivation.
You’ll usually need a full, clean driving licence and your own transport or use a transportation that is provided to you by the production house.
