2nd Assistant Director
Cardiff
Do you have professional experience of working in the role of 3rd or 2nd Assistant Director, or a Stage Manager from theatre? Do you enjoy coordinating crucial moving components in a project and thrive in a fast-moving, constantly changing work environment?
Casualty is a BAFTA winning continuing Drama about the staff and patients at the Holby City Emergency Department, charting the ups and downs in their personal and professional lives whilst wrestling with the controversial and sensitive issues that its audience resonate with. Through great writing and visual flair, the show balances gritty realism with high drama to keep its millions of dedicated viewers coming back for more, week in week out.
From breaking down the script to scheduling transport, fittings and rehearsals in pre-production, the 2nd AD works closely with the 1st AD to ensure schedules are closely followed and act as the main off-set contact for all other departments . From ensuring actors are ready for scenes, coordinating transport to arranging make-up and wardrobe timetables, the role enables the smooth running of production and the avoidance of any potential roadblocks, which is crucial in the relentlessly challenging and varied environment that the Casualty production embodies.
We're looking for someone who is enthusiastic and is experienced in being both pro-active and reactive in a calm and effective way. You will have had experience working within a production or theatre team and have the ability to be three steps ahead at all times as you facilitate efficient processes and productive problem solving.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities
The Second Assistant Director will report to the 1st AD, and Production Manager on a day-to-day basis and be responsible for the following duties:
Planning/Organisation:
• To create the daily callsheets based on the latest schedule, and liaise with the various departments to coordinate timings that facilitate the smooth running of the filming floor.
• Breakdown the scripts, and run a budget to employ supporting artist that creatively compose the look of the background of various sets and locations, based on the Director and Producers vison.
• To be aware of likely effects of day-to-day filming issues, acting swiftly to respond and then communicate necessary changes to the relevant departments.
• To identify and communicate additional support requirements during the planning stages of a block.
• To facilitate Post-Production requirements in conjunction with the shooting schedules and artist availability.
• Understand the shooting schedule and relay essential information to the cast and guest artists.
Management:
• To be an inspiring team leader who will motivate and act as a focal point for everyday production process issues.
• To work closely with the cast, anticipate any potential issues and resolve with diplomacy.
Reporting:
• To ensure production and distribution to the production office of the call sheets and progress reports.
• To provide the Line Producer, Producer, Production Manager and 1st Assistant Director with relevant information, thereby alerting them to any issues as they arise.
Departmental:
• To share and communicate, as appropriate, their industry experience with colleagues in the department.
• To manage their own and encourage the other AD's aspirations and expectations in terms of development and training.
Are you the right candidate?
The successful candidate will have:
• Experience as a 2nd Assistant or 3rd Assistant Director or a Stage Manager from theatre
• A developed knowledge of television or stage production and an understanding of the roles of production personnel
• Experience working within a production or theatre team, facilitating efficient group dynamics
• An awareness of BBC Health and Safety Regulations and BBC Values
• Proven ability to work with a range of people and examples of mediating between polarising demands and departments
• The ability to meet deadlines whilst working across a range of tasks at different stages of completion
• The ability to adapt and examples of when you have had to adjust to changing circumstances by planning quickly and efficiently
• Demonstrable proficiency with computers, especially Microsoft Excel and Word
• Knowledge and passion for Continuing Dramas, especially Casualty