Maybe you work in the industry, or you want to, but you’re not entirely sure how it all works. The terms “executive producer” and “producer” confuse you. You think you know, but you’re not as comfortable with who does what as you’d like to be. No worries! This post answers the question: what does an executive producer do? We’ll go over the fundamentals so you can gain some confidence, and aspire to something other than some assistant on a one-time production gig. Let’s jump in.
What does an executive producer do?
What is an executive producer?
Executive Producers typically sit at the top of the film crew food chain. They often work at the highest level of the production. They may have even raised the majority of the film’s money. This part you may already know, so let’s take a closer look.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER DEFINITION
What does an Executive Producer do?
An Executive Producer (EP) is the head producer who supervises other producers in the creation of a film, television show, web series, commercial, or theater performance. They may work independently or on behalf of the studio, financiers or the distributors. They will ensure the film is completed on time, within budget, and to artistic and technical standards. In TV, an Executive Producer may also be the Creator/Writer of the series.
Bottom line: An executive producer is usually a financier of the project. Typically, this person may assemble the core team, but will not physically produce the project.
Executive Producer Job Description and Duties:
- Introduce new concepts and ideas that may align with brand initiatives of the project.
- Ensure production meets competitive goals and projects the intended brand image.
- Supervise other producers and ensure they, and the production, work within union regulations.
- Oversee and approve the hiring of marquee talent.
- Maintain the budget and approve schedules.
It is often thought that EP is like the CEO of production. In major productions, the EP may actually be the CEO of the studio.
But in smaller companies, or even independent films, the executive producer could act as a creator or screenwriter. Other times, the EP may just own the material and have no actual hand in writing any of the scripts.
The main takeaway of the executive producer is that they’re usually not involved in the actual filmmaking process. It’s their financial role that is their primary focus – whether they’re raising money, or just staying on top of the producers to ensure timely completion.
Attaching major stars is also a major component, and any other negotiating that might be required.
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Executive producer vs producer
The difference between producers
There are many types of producers, but we won’t get into the various types here. Elsewhere on the blog, you'll find in-depth explanations of various Producing job titles and responsibilities including Co-Producers, Associate Producers, TV Producers, and Line Producers.
So what’s the difference between a producer and executive producer? The main thing is to understand the division between both roles and their various responsibilities.
We’ll do this by giving a basic definition of a Producer but we have other resources that dive deeper into what a Producer does in greater detail.
FILM PRODUCER DEFINITION
What does a producer do?
A Film Producer is a person that supervises and manages the creation and production of movies, TV shows, web series, and commercial videos, amongst other productions. Typically a Producer is the on-set supervisor to which all departments report. He or she also collaborates with the Director, or other creatives, to ensure the vision is realized.
A Producer may be a self-employed contractor, or subject to the authority of an employer such as a production company or studio. They are involved throughout all phases of production from inception to completion.
Note that the key difference between a Producer and an Executive Producer is that a producer is more hands on, and makes decisions at the ground level.
They are considered the supervisor on-set, and are involved in all phases of production. While Producers are also focused on the technicalities of production like an EP, they have more of a creative hand than the EP. Here's Paula Wagner, who was Tom Cruise's producing partner for many years, explaining just how far-reaching the job is.
Producer Paula Wagner on everything Producers do
If you have the skills to be a producer, you typically have the skills to be an EP. The differentiating factor between the two is access to money. If you don’t have many avenues to getting a film funded, you may not be a very helpful executive producer.
Let’s look more closely at what it takes to become an executive producer.
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What does an executive producer do to get the job?
How to become an executive producer
Getting an executive producer credit can come from many different avenues. Landing the position requires a blend of business acumen, creative vision, and strong industry relationships.
An effective executive producer is immersed in the industry. Many EPs begin their careers in entry-level positions such as production assistants, assistants to producers, or development interns. These roles offer insight into how projects are initiated and sold.
Next, cultivate relationships. Networking is critical— with writers, directors, investors, agents, anyone you can think of who can be of use getting a project off the ground. Executive producers are often the connectors, bringing together the creative and financial components of a project. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and consistently following up on contacts can open doors.
Knowledge of financing is also crucial. As we’ve said, EPs frequently help secure funding, whether through studios, independent investors, grants, or pre-sales. Understanding how to pitch a project and present it as a viable investment is paramount.
Becoming an executive producer takes time, persistence, and adaptability, and it’s rarely someone’s first job in the industry (unless you are financing the film with your own capital). Typically, EP credits come with value that is only obtained by being a seasoned industry vet.
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What do executive producers do generally?
Executive producing beyond film
As we’ve established, an executive producer title is pretty general. It’s so general, in fact, that it isn’t limited to just filmmaking. The position is similar across most creative industries, but here’s a quick rundown of other fields the EP role exists within.
Television
In TV, an EP is often a showrunner, especially in scripted content. They supervise the writers’ room, manage story arcs, hire directors, and coordinate with networks or platforms. There can be other EPs as well, who like with film simply help secure funding.
In unscripted or reality TV, EPs may be more focused on format development, casting, and keeping the show on budget and schedule while ensuring it stays true to its creative concept.
Music
In the music industry, executive producers may guide the overall direction of an album or artist’s project. They often coordinate collaborations, secure studio time, manage budgets, and connect artists with producers or songwriters.
Some EPs also influence the sound and theme of a record, though others may focus more on the business and branding aspects. Often, they’re just a big name to get people’s attention.
Radio/podcasting
In radio and podcasting, executive producers serve as the primary organizers and creative overseers. They may develop show concepts, book guests, shape editorial direction, and supervise producers and hosts. In podcasting especially, EPs might also handle distribution deals, marketing strategy, and monetization.
As nebulous as the title is, the executive producer is an extremely valuable role. You can’t get very far without money or connections, no matter how good your creative project is.
Up Next
The various types of producers
You now know what the Executive Producer does, but what if you’re not ready for that role? There is a lot more to know about the other Producers who create the films and TV shows you know and love. Learn what you need to do to become a producer. Do you know all of the different types? Let's take a deep dive into every kind, so you can confidently decide what role is best for you.
Types of Producers →
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