Production Manager

Arada; Dubai; On-site; AED 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Dubai seeks a Production Manager to oversee film and photo production. This role involves managing budgets, schedules, and production crews while ensuring high-quality standards. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in the industry and possesses strong leadership and communication skills.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of production experience with established production houses.
• Proven experience managing production crews and equipment.
• Track record of successful productions across geographies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed production schedules and budgets.
• Supervise the full production process from pre-production to post-production.
• Ensure adherence to safety regulations and legal production requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Multimedia, Film, media, management or a related field

Job description

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE:

The Production Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of film and photo production at Arada, from concept planning through to final delivery. This role demands exceptional organizational capabilities, leadership acumen, and a comprehensive understanding of the end-to-end production process. The Production Manager plays a critical role in ensuring that creative visions are realized efficiently, legally, and within budget, while maintaining high production standards across all projects.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Production Planning & Management

• Develop and maintain detailed production schedules, timelines, and shoot calendars.
• Create and manage production budgets, ensuring cost control and reporting throughout the project lifecycle.
• Supervise the full production process, including pre-production, filming, and post-production.
• Manage casting, styling, crew hiring, and location arrangements, ensuring all roles and logistics are secured efficiently.
• Maintain alignment between the creative team and production crews to ensure timely and accurate execution of projects.

Team & Stakeholder Coordination

• Lead and coordinate AV teams, photographers, videographers, stylists, and external suppliers.
• Ensure clarity of communication between creative direction and execution teams.
• Provide regular progress reports to senior stakeholders and proactively flag any challenges.
• Coach and manage production staff and freelance resources to deliver consistently high results.

Technical Oversight & Legal Compliance

• Ensure optimal usage of production equipment, tools, and technologies.
• Understand the technical landscape of film production and troubleshoot logistical or technical issues.
• Oversee adherence to safety regulations, industry standards, and legal production requirements (permits, rights, insurance, etc.).
• Possess an informed view of what is possible within the UAE production context from a regulatory, cultural, and logistical standpoint.

Vendor & Contract Management

• Negotiate and manage contracts with talent, suppliers, and production houses.
• Maintain strong working relationships with creative vendors, rental houses, and service providers.
• Ensure delivery deadlines and budget compliance through active project supervision.

Financial Reporting & Analysis

• Monitor production-related expenditures and ensure all costs are tracked and approved.
• Generate financial reports and post-project reconciliations.
• Identify areas for cost-efficiency while maintaining creative and technical integrity.

QUALIFICATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Multimedia, Film, media, management or a related field.
• Arabic language proficiency is a plus.

EXPERIENCE

• 10+ years of production experience working with established production houses.
• Proven experience managing production crews and equipment.
• Track record of successful small and large scale photo and film productions across geographies.

SKILLS

• Engaging, strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Problem-solving mindset and ability to handle high-pressure situations.
• Passion for film and photography, and for delivering great work.