An executive producer is a very important figure in film, video, television and other aspects of entertainment. As the most senior producer of a given project, the executive producer is primarily in charge of coordinating the entire production activity starting from its Development stage up to Post-Production.
An Executive Producer Job Description is incredibly diverse in scope and requires an extraordinary combination of business know-how, creative insight, and leadership.
Learning and understanding the Executive Producer job description is crucial for understanding the role itself or for a candidate wishing to step into the position or for anybody trying to learn about the processes involved within the media.
Also read: Video Editor Salary in Nigeria for 2025
Who Is an Executive Producer?
An executive producer (EP) is in charge of all activities involving the production including the financial, creative, and administrative tasks.
The EP manages the overarching concepts for films, TV shows, music albums, video games, and even live performances, ensuring that every detail is completed on time and within the budget set.
The EP also monitors the production’s progress towards its overall goals.
What Does an Executive Producer Do?
An Executive Producer works for a film, video or theater production company developing a plan for the dates and areas in which shooting will take place, allocation of project funds and coordination of day of shooting arrangements.
They typically possess the ownership rights for the product under consideration and define his strategy from fundraising to the release of the film.
From the basic concepts to the technical details of each project, Executive Producers assign other Producers to manage each component.
They take care of staff time scheduling in conjunction with the release of the project to the public and, in conjunction with the brand, the project’s image.
An executive producer is the one in charge of incorporating funding, planning and the creative input of an undertaking.
The executive producers come in during all phases of production such as Development, Pre-Production, Production and also Post Production.
Key Responsibilities of an Executive Producer
An executive producer needs experience and background knowledge in managing a myriad of tasks, such as:
- Vetting the project’s development: collaborates closely with writers, directors, and other producers to carry out thorough work on the concept, script, and project budget
- Financing the project: securing potential investors, brokering deals, and tracking project expenditure
- Key personnel decisions: freelancer and employee selection for director, cast, and other project crew members
- Production supervision: tracking adherence to work schedules, budget limitations, and the established standards of the completed project
- Post-production supervision: editing, visual effects, and sound design for the project.
- Marketing and distribution supervision: overseeing proper marketing strategies and distribution of the project
Executive Producer Skills and Qualifications
- Possessing commendable communications skills useful in coordinating diverse people to achieve a work goal of being within budget and completing tasks in the shortest timing possible.
- Being open-minded in developing how the script will be acted out and capturing its essence on the stage/screen.Â
- Leading actors in achieving realistic portrayals of characters and supervising the backstage team tasked with completing work behind the scenes requires a solid command of leadership skills.Â
- Having managerial ability to locate and secure the best available crew and Director at the right time for the project.
- Strong creative vision: ability to develop and maintain a clear creative vision for the project
- Ability to work under pressure: ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment
- Strong problem-solving skills: ability to troubleshoot problems and find creative solutions
Education and Training for Executive Producers
Though there are no formal requirements for executive producers, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant industry like film, television or business could be helpful.
Becoming an EP usually takes several years along with a proven history in the entertainment industry.
Here are the steps required to achieve this role:
- Education: A degree in film production, media studies, business administration, or a related field.
- Experience: Gaining hands-on experience as a producer, director, or writer.
- Networking: Building connections with industry professionals and investors.
- Portfolio: Showcasing successful projects and demonstrating leadership capabilities.
Career Path for an Executive Producer
Typically, an executive producer must have a variety of work experience in different capacities in a film, television or entertainment production company. This includes:
- Assisting a production assistant: performing basic clerical duties for a production houseÂ
- Producer: being in charge of a single project
- Line producer: focusing on the finances as well as the planning and scheduling
- Executive producer: directing the business side of the project.
Salary and Benefits for Executive Producers
Salary differs from one executive producer to another, depending on the project, level of expertise, and location.
Rough estimates to some of the projects under executive producers are:
- $100,000 to $250,000 per year for film executive producersÂ
- $80,000 to $200,000 per year for television executive producersÂ
- $60,000 to $150,000 per year for theater executive producers
In Nigeria, A Television Executive Producer according to Worldsalaries will earn around 7,464,400 NGN per year.
Final Thoughts on Executive Producer Job Description
If you’re looking to follow the path of an Executive Producer, the best tip is to network. This means attending industry events, reaching out to people on LinkedIn, and looking for people who can mentor you. While doing this, make sure you gain enough experience in different production roles so that you have an impressive list of completed successful projects.
In a constantly changing media landscape, business and creative skill development along with acquiring knowledge will prove to be vital in this challenging yet fulfilling industry.
An Executive Producer position comes with a lot of responsibilities. Understanding Executive Producer Job Description as well as what competitors you will be working against, is essential in deciding whether this role is suitable for you.