Find our what it’s like producing projects with our Head of Production, Amy. She fills us in on working with clients and keeping the studio running smoothly.
What does your role as Head of Production involve?
Part plate-spinner, part problem-solver, day-to-day I make sure projects run smoothly and successfully. I’m the main point of contact for clients, guiding them through the whole production process so they get a project that fits their purpose, and we make some great work that everyone is proud of. Each morning with a coffee in-hand I go through my emails and organise the studio schedule for the day. What I’m working on can change quite quickly. I bounce from responding to client requests and enquiries to helping solve any questions in the team about specific briefs and workload. That means the day I think I will have is rarely the one I end up getting.
How did you get into this field?
As the bossy oldest sister, it turns out I’ve been developing my producing skills since I can remember. So when I discovered I could organise things for a living, it felt like a perfect fit.
While studying English Language & Linguistics at the University of Sheffield, I got involved in the Filmmaking Society. After an inspirational week at Sheffield Doc/Fest, I took a leap of faith and applied to loads of places to get experience. After a few placements and plenty of setbacks, I started working at a small film studio before moving to a much bigger full-service agency. While working there, I met Matt & Leigh. A few months later they left to set up Little Motel. I continued cutting my teeth as a producer working for clients such as BMW, TSB and BT. It was great watching Matt & Leigh grow the studio from afar so when they asked if I was interested in coming aboard it was a no-brainer.
My advice to anyone who wants to be a producer would be to make connections – talk to people, ask questions and be interested in the answers. You never know who might be able to help you along the way. Then once you’re in your first job, be proactive and helpful, and make the rest of the team’s day easier wherever you can.
What do you like most about working in the creative industry?
I love the fast pace and creative problem-solving to find a solution to a client’s brief or an obstacle we’re facing as a team. It’s really satisfying to help coax the team’s creative ideas out of their heads and into reality.
What has been a highlight while working at Little Motel?
Please don’t make me pick favourites! I love projects where I learn something new. For Bradford Teaching, I directed the shoot, interviewing teachers in a hot green-screen studio. Very different to a usual day in the office!
Equally, I love working for people who are making a difference in the world and I get to spend a couple of months getting to grips with their work. Our animation for the University of Leeds about Community Municipal Bonds was the first time I learnt about how your money in your pensions or savings, has a huge impact on your carbon footprint.
What do you do in your spare time?
I’m a keen crafter. Recently, I knitted a cosy jumper that I’m very proud of. Wearing it makes the dreary Leeds winter more bearable. I also love curling up with a good film or book, Dreamland by Rosa Rankin-Gee is a recent favourite of mine, for fans of dystopian fiction. Out-and-about, if I’m not adventuring in the Dales, then you’ll likely find me at Brudenell Social Club watching live music and eating crisps or at my local brewery, Amity.
Sum up working here in 3 words
Fun, friendly, fulfilling!
