Unit production manager

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A Unit Production Manager (UPM) is an executive who is responsible for the administration of a film.

[edit] Overview

A UPM is usually hired by a producer of a film or television show, and is responsible for watching all costs on the project, with the intention of delivering the film or show on budget at the end of principal photography. The UPM will deliver the working budget to the financier during the "prep" period, therefore setting the business plan of the project. Typically, Producers are responsible for the cost-related decisions on above-the-line (primarily cast) issues, while the UPM is responsible for the below-the-line (production period) costs. The Film Director will usually have final decision on Cinematographer, Costume Designer, Production Designer, and Film Editor), and the UPM will make the deals and hire the remaining crew.

Before principal photography begins they get all of the production elements in place, usually working in the production office. When the project has begun shooting, they may divide their time between the office and the set, or may work out of a trailer on the set. They typically remain on a project for 2-6 weeks of wrap after principal photography.

This is a position that gets very little recognition outside the film industry, but all successful UPM's must have a great deal of knowledge about every element of filmmaking, as they must approve each and every expenditure. UPM's are also often listed first on a film's end credits.

A union UPM is represented by The Directors Guild of America.

[edit] Duties

Their duties usually include:

• Preparing the Budget by breaking down the script and its elements
• Responsibility for most of the financial negotiations, such as equipment procurement and stage costs
• Preparing a preliminary shooting schedule (the 1st Assistant Director takes over this responsibility, discussing changes with the UPM)
• Hiring the crew, except for the "Director's hires"

[edit] Management duties

They also have management duties to perform:

• Approving all production expenditures, usually submitted via purchase order, check request, or petty cash envelopes
• Negotiating the crews' salaries and approving time cards
• Negotiating equipment procurement (cameras, film stock, lights), attempting to use the preferred vendors of the Director of Photography, Director, or the UPM themselves.
• Approving each day's "Call Sheet" and "Production Report".
• Often, the UPM must mollify those members of the crew involved in personality conflicts.