What does an executive producer do, you ask? Well, from the initial idea to the final credits, a skilled executive producer makes creative decisions – turning simple concepts into well-orchestrated TV shows, movies, music, and more. They also juggle writers, actors, and directors on the one hand while solving conflicts within production teams and keeping projects on budget on the other.
At Voice123, we handle numerous projects, companies, and voice talent (and those are just the ones before noon), meaning we’ve seen firsthand the crucial role of an executive producer. So whether you’re in the film, audio, video game, or marketing industry, here’s everything you need to know about what is an executive producer and their duties and skills. It’s time to Jerry Bruckheimer your next production!
What is an executive producer
An executive producer is a high-ranking producer who leads a film, audio, television, or music production by securing investor financing, overseeing the casting process, collaborating with the director, creating a distribution deal with a studio, and even organizing a marketing campaign to promote the production. They also work closely with writers, directors, and other creative personnel to develop the script and provide input on the production’s visual style. But this is just the tip of the iceberg of what an executive producer does.
What does an executive producer do
An executive producer is the captain of a production, and their role is similar to that of a producer; they help to create and maintain a project’s creative vision, secure funding, manage budgets, hire talent, make creative decisions, supervise crew members, handle legal and business affairs, coordinate marketing and distribution, and they keep the production on schedule. For example, if a film is unexpectedly delayed, the executive producer works closely with the production team to identify and implement solutions to get the project back on track. They also carry out critical tasks related to project development, financial and team management, and decision-making. Here’s a closer look at these aspects.
Project Development
An executive producer oversees project development by collaborating with writers, directors, and other creative professionals to provide feedback and suggestions on the script. Occasionally, they’ll even propose a project idea. For example, they can create a TV show concept and work with the creators and writers to develop the series. They’ll also provide insight and feedback on character development, plot structure, or other thematic elements.
Financial Management
Executive producers manage a project’s finances by allocating funds to different departments and adjusting resources to maintain financial stability. They also make strategic decisions to optimize available resources and maximize investments. For example, they might negotiate a film’s financing from production companies and individual investors or take it out of their own pocket if necessary.
Team Management
Executive producers assemble and manage teams of directors, writers, and other key personnel unique to each project. This includes professionals like researchers, cinematographers, and editors. For example, when working on a documentary, they carefully choose team members who understand the subject and genre and can bring the director’s vision to life.
Decision-making
Executive producers make critical decisions that involve greenlighting projects, approving scripts, resolving conflicts, and addressing production issues. For example, when working on a series for a streaming platform, an executive producer reviews pilot scripts and has the final say on which projects to move forward with. They also analyze a project’s market appeal and resolve any disagreements the production team may have.
Now that you know what a producer does, let’s take a closer look at their responsibilities in different projects.
What does an executive producer do on a TV show
An executive producer on a TV show works with the showrunner and writers as a bridge between commercial success and creative vision, and they secure financing, oversee contracts, and ensure that the storyline meets the network’s objectives. For example, with a crime drama series, an executive producer participates in story meetings, offering suggestions on character arcs and plot intricacy. They also manage casting, production design, locations, visual effects, and post-production funds. And by collaborating with marketing teams, they provide insight into the show’s target audience and key selling points to make it stand out.
What does an executive producer do in voice overs
An executive producer in voice overs reviews auditions and demo reels and conducts callbacks to choose the best voice actors before finalizing contracts and ensuring legal compliance for the recordings. Although voice casting platforms like Voice123 offer professional voice talent, an executive producer can still guide voice actors on script interpretation and character portrayal. For example, with an animated film, the executive director makes decisions based on vocal range and acting ability to select the lead characters’ voice actors. They offer suggestions on vocal techniques, help refine line delivery, and ensure the actors capture the essence of their characters.
What does an executive producer do in a movie
An executive producer in a movie shapes the film’s vision through script input or creative suggestions, and they broker deals with production companies, studios, or investors to arrange funds so production flows smoothly. They also collaborate with distributors and marketing teams to promote the film. For example, with a fantasy film, an executive producer offers screenplay feedback to make the movie more appealing to audiences. They suggest changes to enhance character development or strengthen the overall narrative structure. They also decide on marketing posters and digital ads and allocate budgets to each department.
What does an executive producer do in music
An executive producer in music works with musicians, songwriters, the label, and production teams, to finalize song selections and review the final version to ensure the desired sound and quality. In marketing, they work with publicists and distribution platforms to develop strategies for album releases, music video concepts, promotional campaigns, and branding. For example, when working on a pop album, they offer guidance on instrumentation and vocal performances to curate an album showcasing the artist’s strengths and enhancing the album’s sound and appeal.
Final thoughts
Executive producers skillfully balance creative visions with monetary responsibilities and team dynamics. They play a pivotal role in project development, financial and team management, and decision-making because they’re the ones who keep calm when actors forget their lines. They bravely untangle the web of production challenges that emerge every day. So, the next time you watch a thrilling TV show, a mesmerizing movie, or listen to a song that moves your soul, remember to give a nod to the executive producers who made it all possible.
And when you’re ready to produce your own voice over project, Voice123 is here to help. You can search for voice actors that suit your specific project needs or contact our Managed Services team and leave your entire project in our capable hands.
Now’s the time to embrace your inner Quentin Tarantino and make your next production an unforgettable experience!
FAQs
The difference between a producer and an executive producer is that a producer handles the day-to-day management and execution of a project, whereas an executive producer oversees an entire production providing financial, management, and creative support as needed.
Actors become executive producers to gain more involvement in decision-making and creative control by influencing a project’s direction. They can also increase production earnings by being more engaged in a project.
Some shows have many executive producers because each one represents a different stakeholder or contributor with investments in the production, like creators, financiers, or studio executives.
An executive producer is responsible for securing funding for a project; they negotiate contracts and financial agreements, hire key personnel, and handle the distribution and marketing strategies to promote the production.
