TV/Film Runner

Runners provide essential support in the production of films and TV programmes.

The job provides the chance to gain experience and make contacts and is often seen as the way into a career in the film or TV industry. The runner role itself, while varied, is often demanding and unglamorous. Runners are likely to spend a lot of time making tea or running errands.

The work can vary hugely. Runners may be called on to do almost any unskilled task required to help the production go smoothly. This could include:

• cleaning and tidying
• transporting crews between locations
• providing refreshments and greeting visitors
• distributing scripts and delivering equipment, tapes or other items
• basic research and general administration work
• opening the building in the morning and locking up at the end of the day.

Runners work long and unpredictable hours. They are expected to work flexibly to meet deadlines. Some work shifts. The work is based in studios, in editing suites and on location. Travel is frequent in the working day and a driving licence is essential.

Most runners work on a freelance basis, on short-term contracts. Full-time paid salaries for runners may range from £10,000 to £16,000 a year.

Runners must be:

• enthusiastic and energetic
• able to work on their own initiative
• excellent communicators
• well organised and resourceful
• cool under pressure
• passionately interested in all aspects of TV and film production.

Runners are employed by independent film and TV production companies, the BBC, the ITV network of companies and cable and satellite TV companies.

Competition for places is fierce. It is important to gain work experience, which may be unpaid, and to build contacts in the industry. There are no set entry qualifications. A degree, foundation degree or HND in a subject related to TV or film may be an advantage, but enthusiasm and experience are as important.

Runners are expected to learn on the job. Skillset supports a number of short courses for freelances.

The role gives runners a thorough grounding that could ultimately lead to more senior jobs in the industry. In TV, runners usually progress to researcher jobs. In film, they may become third, second and then first assistant director or move into production assistant roles.

Further details