Production Accountant

Production Accountants are responsible for managing finances and maintaining financial records during film or TV production, working closely with the producer and the production office. Their job includes preparing schedules and budgets for film productions, and managing the day to day accounting financial reporting against the budgets.

Production Accountants usually work on a freelance basis. The experience and qualification required will depend on the size and scale of the film or TV production. Film or TV Production Accountants usually have a qualification in accounting, as well as a number of years' experience in the film industry. Film and TV Production Accountants need to gain the approval of the financiers, guarantors and studios involved in the production, so their qualifications and experience are important.

Specific tasks during production include calculating finances, costing productions, liaising with financiers, and managing cash flow. They must ensure that all legal requirements are met. In pre-production, Production Accountants assist the producers and production managers to prepare budgets. They will set up and manage accounting systems, and supervise assistant accountants and accounts trainees. Production Accountants may also deal with bank finance and completion guarantors. They will finalize all financial records relating to the production, and may also have to arrange an independent audit. Sometimes Production Accountants will work in collaboration with senior accountants, known as financial controllers, who are often permanently employed by production companies, or in collaboration with studio finance executives.

Production Accountants must have a good working knowledge of filmmaking processes as well as bookkeeping and accountancy skills.