Studio/Floor Manager

Also known as:

Floor/Studio Manager

Introduction

Studio/floor managers act as a link between the director in the control room and the studio floor. They supervise camera and sound crew and other technicians.

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Work Activities

Studio managers work in radio and floor managers work in television.

Studio managers make sure that the studios and technical equipment are set up correctly before a radio transmission goes live. Typical activities include:
• checking sound balance and quality
• controlling the mixing desk
• running tapes and discs at the right moment.

In addition to studio work, studio managers may work in an outside broadcasting unit. After gaining experience, it is usual for studio managers to specialise in a particular area of broadcasting such as drama, music or sport.

Floor managers act as a link between the filming director and the studio floor. They also organise and co-ordinate what is happening on the studio floor. For instance, they may supervise the installation of props and scenery and make sure that the performers, audience and technical equipment are all in their correct places. Floor managers may also work on outside broadcasts for both television and film.

Travel and time away from home may be required, especially for location work and outside broadcasts.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You need to be assertive, patient, tactful, self-confident and able to generate enthusiasm in others. Technical ability is also important, especially in radio work, as the studio manager has more control over production quality.

You need a detailed understanding of all aspects of production to co-ordinate the work of television and radio professionals. You will need to be fit and have lots of stamina. You must also be able to remain calm under pressure and keep to tight deadlines.

You need excellent communication skills. You should have good hearing as a lot of information is passed to studio/floor managers through headphones.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries for studio and floor managers vary depending on which part of the industry they work in, whether they are employed or self-employed, and their level of responsibility.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Studio and floor managers earn in the range of £470 - £560 a week, rising to around £800 a week, and higher rates are possible.

They often work long and irregular hours, including nights and weekends.

Many work as self-employed, freelance managers. They work for the BBC, independent television and film companies, commercial radio stations, and satellite and cable television firms, often on short-term contracts.

Entry is very competitive.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

A background working as a floor assistant or studio technician is helpful.

Having a track record of managing productions at an amateur or student level can also be useful. Voluntary work in local radio or theatre companies is often seen as relevant.

• 46% of people in occupations such as studio/floor management are self-employed.
• 14% work part-time.
• 5% have flexible hours
• 4% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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