Production Coordinator vs. Production Manager: What Are the Differences?

A production coordinator and production manager are two important roles in the film and television industry. Both positions work with the production team to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. However, there are several key differences between these two jobs. In this article, we discuss the duties of a production coordinator and production manager, and we explain the differences between these two positions.

What is a Production Coordinator?

A Production Coordinator is responsible for assisting the Production Manager in all aspects of the production process. This includes scheduling, budgeting, equipment rentals, and crew hiring. Production Coordinators also handle all the logistics of the production, such as travel and accommodation arrangements for cast and crew. They work closely with the Production Manager to ensure that the production runs smoothly and on schedule. Production Coordinators must be highly organized and efficient, with excellent communication skills.

What is a Production Manager?

A Production Manager is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the production of television, film or theatre projects. They work with the Producer to ensure that the project stays on schedule and within budget. They also hire and supervise the crew, including the Director, Assistant Director, production designers and other production staff. Production Managers work closely with the cast and crew to ensure that the production runs smoothly and that everyone has the resources they need to do their job. In some cases, the Production Manager may also be responsible for securing locations, negotiating contracts and obtaining permits.

Production Coordinator vs. Production Manager

Here are the main differences between a production coordinator and a production manager.

Job Duties

Production coordinators typically have more varied job duties than production managers. They often handle the logistics of a production, such as scheduling, location scouting and budgeting. Production coordinators also communicate with vendors and suppliers to ensure the production has all the necessary equipment, props and costumes.

Production managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a production. They make sure the cast and crew are prepared and ready to begin filming on time. In addition, production managers monitor budgets and schedules. They also provide feedback to the director about the cast and crew members.

Job Requirements

Production coordinators typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in film, communications or another related field. Some production coordinators also have a master’s degree in business administration or management. Additionally, many production coordinators start their careers as interns or assistant production coordinators before moving into full-time roles.

Production managers usually need several years of experience working in the film or television industry before they can be considered for a managerial role. Additionally, some production managers pursue a master’s degree in business administration or management to help them qualify for more advanced positions.

Work Environment

Production coordinators typically work in an office environment, where they can access all the necessary information about a production. They may also travel to different locations to meet with crew members and ensure that filming is going smoothly. Production managers often spend most of their time on set, overseeing the entire production process. This means that they’re usually present for filming and editing, which allows them to provide feedback and make changes as needed.

Skills

There are several similarities in the skills used by production coordinators and production managers. Both roles require excellent communication skills, as they need to be able to coordinate with various team members and departments to ensure that projects stay on track. They also both need to have strong organizational skills to keep track of deadlines, budget and other important details.

However, there are some differences in the skills needed for these two positions. Production coordinators typically need to have a good understanding of the production process, as their job is to facilitate smooth communication and coordination between different team members. Production managers, on the other hand, need to have a more comprehensive understanding of all aspects of production, as they are responsible for overseeing the entire process. This includes having a deep knowledge of the software, equipment and techniques used in production. Additionally, production managers often benefit from having leadership skills to motivate and manage teams of workers.

Salary

Production coordinators earn an average salary of $53,012 per year, while production managers earn an average salary of $73,786 per year. The average salary for both positions may vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the employee has prior to taking the job.