Position Overview:

We are seeking a visionary and experienced Head of Film Department to lead our film production division at Black Market Records, a dynamic and rapidly growing company in the entertainment and media industry. The Head of Film Department will oversee all aspects of film development, production, and distribution, from concept through to release. This leadership role requires a strategic thinker with deep industry knowledge, strong creative instincts, and a proven ability to manage both creative and operational aspects of film projects. The ideal candidate will have a passion for storytelling, a network within the film industry, and the ability to lead a diverse team of filmmakers, producers, and production staff.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Management:

• Lead, manage, and inspire a diverse team of filmmakers, producers, and production staff.
• Foster a creative, collaborative environment that encourages innovation and high-quality filmmaking.
• Provide mentorship, guidance, and professional development to the department's team members, helping to nurture talent and advance their careers.
• Manage departmental budgets, timelines, and resources, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.

Film Strategy & Development:

• Develop and execute the overall strategic vision for the film department, aligned with the company’s mission and business objectives.
• Oversee the acquisition of film rights, and lead the development of original film concepts, scripts, and projects.
• Work closely with writers, directors, and producers to develop film projects from concept through pre-production, production, and post-production.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with external creatives, agencies, film studios, and production companies for project collaboration and partnerships.

Project Oversight & Production Management:

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of film projects, ensuring smooth transitions from development through to production, post-production, and distribution.
• Approve scripts, casting decisions, budgets, shooting schedules, and key creative choices in collaboration with the project team.
• Ensure that all projects are adhering to high production standards, maintaining artistic integrity while meeting deadlines and budget constraints.
• Manage the allocation of resources and staffing needs, ensuring that projects have the appropriate talent and expertise.

Creative Direction & Collaboration:

• Provide creative leadership on all film projects, ensuring that the artistic vision aligns with the company’s branding and market positioning.
• Collaborate with the creative team, including directors, cinematographers, and designers, to bring the vision of the project to life.
• Review dailies, rough cuts, and final edits, providing feedback and maintaining oversight on the film’s creative direction.
• Work closely with other departments, including marketing, distribution, and finance, to ensure projects align with company goals and industry trends.

Budgeting & Financial Management:

• Develop and manage film production budgets, ensuring the most cost-effective use of resources while maintaining high-quality production standards.
• Work closely with the finance department to monitor expenditures, approve payments, and ensure that projects stay within budget.
• Seek out funding opportunities, grants, and investment opportunities to support film projects.
• Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with external stakeholders, including talent, agencies, vendors, and production companies.

Industry Relationships & Networking:

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key players in the film industry, including producers, distributors, agents, and studios.
• Represent the company at film festivals, markets, and other industry events to showcase projects and develop business opportunities.
• Stay informed on emerging trends in the film industry, including distribution platforms, technologies, and creative innovations, and incorporate these insights into department strategy.

Film Distribution & Marketing:

• Work closely with the marketing and distribution teams to create effective strategies for promoting and distributing films.
• Ensure the successful launch of films through strategic partnerships with distributors, streaming platforms, and international sales teams.
• Oversee the creation of promotional materials, trailers, and other assets needed for film releases.
• Monitor and analyze the performance of films in theaters, on-demand platforms, and other distribution channels, adjusting strategies as needed.

Legal & Contractual Oversight:

• Ensure that all film contracts, including talent agreements, distribution rights, and co-production agreements, are properly negotiated and executed.
• Work with the legal team to ensure that all production, intellectual property, and rights issues are handled efficiently.
• Ensure compliance with local, national, and international regulations affecting film production, distribution, and copyright.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Film Production, Film Studies, Media, or a related field (required).
• Advanced degree or professional certifications in filmmaking, entertainment management, or business is a plus.

Experience:

• 7+ years of experience in film production, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role (e.g., Producer, Executive Producer, Head of Production).
• Proven track record of overseeing the production of films from development to release, with experience in both independent and large-scale productions.
• Extensive experience in managing budgets, schedules, and resources for film projects.
• Strong relationships and networking experience with film industry professionals, distributors, and studios.

Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of the entire film production process, from development and financing to distribution and marketing.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to build and lead a creative team.
• Exceptional creative vision, with an ability to balance artistic integrity and commercial viability.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong understanding of film financing, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Familiarity with film distribution platforms (e.g., theatrical, streaming, television) and marketing strategies.