Senior Production Business Manager

Who we are:

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.

The Senior Production Business Manager is responsible for all financial and legal aspects of production for all TV, radio, print and integrated productions. They serve as an expert and main point of contact for producers and for account management for all production matters.

Responsibilities

• Manage and adhere to all company and client guidelines and procedures in regard to production.

• Review scripts, decks/storyboards for any potential licensing, copyright or legal issues.

• Ability to ballpark costs for productions, prepare specs that incorporate both the agency and client guidelines.

• Analyze production and editorial bids and partnering with producers though all phases of production.

• Prepare estimates, purchase orders, insurance documents and production/editorial/music contracts/3rdparty licenses.

• Manage production budgets and cost control through final billing of projects. Handle any billing issues and ensure proper legal approvals are secured including any third-party trademark releases. Compliance on all SOX audits.

• Interface with Account Management, Client Cost Consultants and Vendors.

• Collaborate with account management to ensure timely release and shipping of final commercials.

Skills & Experience

• Must be knowledgeable of the SAG/AFTRA/AFM union regulations.

• Have knowledge about Non-Union talent and contracting.

• Understanding of SOX regulations.

• Have knowledge of legal guidelines for commercial production, licensing language, trademark, rights of privacy, copyright and production insurance.

• Knowledge of AICP and AICE bid forms.

• Have experience working with international production and overseas talent payment negotiations.

• Highly detail oriented, organized and solutions focused.

• Exceptional initiative, pitch-in, multitasking, attention to detail and follow-through skills.

• Must have the ability to positively influence others, including a calm and patient demeanor when facing stressful situations and urgent deadlines.

The base salary for this position at the time of this posting may range from $70,000 to $140,000 . Individual compensation varies based on job related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package, click here for more details.

At VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization-creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers-who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction.

VML is a WPP . For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

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