UPM (Unit Production Manager)
A Unit Production Manager (UPM) is like the chief operating officer of a film or TV production. They handle the day-to-day management of film productions, including budgeting, scheduling, hiring crew members, and coordinating between different departments. Think of them as the person who makes sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, from managing costs to ensuring everyone has what they need to do their jobs. They work closely with producers and directors to turn creative vision into practical reality while keeping the production on schedule and within budget.
Examples in Resumes
Served as UPM on five feature films with budgets ranging from $2M to $15M
Unit Production Manager for award-winning Netflix series, managing 120+ crew members
Lead Unit Production Manager overseeing daily operations and $5M budget for independent film
Typical job title: "Unit Production Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Unit Production Managers
Industry Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where your production goes significantly over budget?
Expected Answer: An experienced UPM should discuss strategies like identifying cost-saving opportunities, re-negotiating contracts, adjusting shooting schedules, and communicating effectively with producers and stakeholders to find solutions while maintaining production quality.
Q: Describe how you would manage a production that suddenly loses a key location or needs to shut down due to unforeseen circumstances.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate crisis management skills, including having backup plans, understanding insurance protocols, ability to quickly source alternative locations, and experience in adjusting schedules while minimizing financial impact.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you create and manage a production schedule?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they break down scripts, coordinate with department heads, arrange logistics, and use scheduling software to create realistic timelines while accounting for potential delays and challenges.
Q: What's your approach to hiring and managing crew members?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience in evaluating crew needs, checking references, negotiating rates, managing union requirements, and maintaining positive working relationships across departments.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the key responsibilities of a UPM?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic duties like budget management, scheduling, crew hiring, location logistics, and departmental coordination.
Q: How do you handle daily production reports and cost tracking?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic production paperwork, cost tracking methods, and the importance of maintaining accurate records for production accounting.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-3 years)
- Basic budget tracking
- Production paperwork management
- Crew coordination
- Schedule maintenance
Mid (3-7 years)
- Full budget management
- Crew hiring and supervision
- Production scheduling
- Contract negotiation
Senior (7+ years)
- Large budget oversight
- Crisis management
- Multi-unit coordination
- Strategic production planning
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with production budgeting software
- Lack of knowledge about union regulations and requirements
- Poor communication or organizational skills
- No understanding of production insurance and legal requirements
