Post Production Supervisors are responsible for the post production process, during which they maintain clarity of information and good channels of communication between the Producer, Editor, Supervising Sound Editor, the Facilities Companies (such as film labs, CGI studios and negative cutters) and the Production Accountant. Although this is not a creative role, it is pivotal in ensuring that the film's Post Production budget is manageable and achievable, and that all deadlines are met. Because large amounts of money are involved, and most of a film's budget is spent during Production, the Post Production period can often be difficult and challenging.

The Post Production Supervisors' role can be stressful and requires ingenuity, empathy and the ability to make tough decisions under pressure, while working long hours, to tight deadlines. Some Post Production Supervisors may be involved on a number of films at one time, but usually work on 3 or 4 films a year. They are employed on a freelance basis, by the Producer, often also with approval from a Completion Bond Guarantee company. They usually work alone, but on larger productions may employ an Assistant.

What is the job?
The role of the Post Production Supervisor varies according to the type of film and the budget. On big budget films using complex CGI (Computer Generated Images), they start work during pre-production, liaising with the CGI Company and ensuring that the Producer is aware of all the creative and budgetary considerations and how they may impact on the post production period. On smaller budget films they also advise about any limits that may need to be applied to the shoot, as well as providing an overall picture of what can be realistically achieved in post production. Most Post Production Supervisors also liaise with the Editor and Producer (and sometimes the Director), about the hiring of post production personnel (Sound Editors, Titles Designers, Mixers, etc).

During the post production process, they work closely with the Production Accountant, supplying accurate information for the Cost Reports, which are prepared every 3-4 weeks and show how actual expenditure compares to the original budget. Post Production Supervisors work with the Editor, Supervising Sound Editor, and Re-Recording Sound Mixer throughout post production, making sure that each different stage of the process is delivered on time and within budget. They usually continue to work on the production until all the elements needed for the completion of the film are delivered, including the Music and Effects version which allows the dialogue track to be replaced with different languages.

Typical career routes
Although there is no typical career route, most Post Production Supervisors have a wide experience of working in Post Production for at least 4 years, e.g., as an Assistant Editor, or in a specialised area of sound, such as ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement), or in a Production role such as Production Assistant, Production Co-ordinator, etc. Because the work involves dealing with those who are responsible for the highly complex processes involved in post production, first hand experience of the challenges they face is vital.

Essential knowledge and skills
Expert knowledge of the full post production process is the basic requirement for Post Production Supervisors. Because of the rapid changes in digital post production technology, it is vital that Post Production Supervisors keep up to date with developments by staying in regular contact with Facilities Houses, Equipment Manufacturers and the Trade Press. Knowledge and experience of film budgeting software is also vital.
Key Skills include:

• excellent communication/people skills;
  
• ability to multi-task;
  
• ability to motivate a team;
  
• financial and budget management skills;
  
• ability to work to strict deadlines;
  
• effective organisational skills;
  
• advanced problem solving skills;
  
• ability to work well under pressure;
  
• knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures.
  

Training and qualifications 
Although no formal training or qualifications are required for the role of Post Production Supervisor, first hand experience of working in a specialised area of post production (such as Assistant Editor), is a definite advantage, and provides the necessary contacts and experience for the job.  Industry recognised specialised courses in Editing, Production Budgeting, etc., and some Post graduate courses are available.

Individual course accreditation in certain subject areas is currently being piloted. As part of Skillset's and the UK Film Council's Film Skills Strategy, A Bigger Future, a network of Screen Academies and a Film Business Academy have been approved as centres of excellence in education and training for film.

Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the audio visual industries. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.

Websites
- BKSTS - The Moving Image Society, organises events, courses, and new equipment demos, and publishes: Cinema Technology, and Image Technology;

- BECTU, the trade union represents Editing & Post Production personnel;

- Shooting People, a forum on filmmaking;

Publications
- Editing and Post-production (Screencraft series published by Focal Press) by Declan McGrath;

- Screen Daily publishes weekly Screen International  and offers an on-line news service;

- Variety, a weekly publication for the film, television, music and interactive entertainment industries;

- American Cinematographer American Cinematographer

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