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Showrunner / Series Director

Holds the creative lead across a series — sets tone, casting and style for the episode directors (UK usage varies).

Duties

• Read the call sheet and sides before arriving
• Maintain radio/set etiquette and H&S
• Hand over notes/kit status at wrap
• Set series style and tone
• Brief and support block directors
• Sign off cuts across episodes

Reports to

Executive Producer / broadcaster

Works with

Producers, Episode Directors, Writers, Post

Career path

Director / Writer-Producer → Series Director / Showrunner

Day to day

Reviews scripts, briefs block directors, approves cuts and keeps the series consistent.

Call times

Director calls with the 1st AD before unit call for blocking; wraps after rushes/next-day prep. Prep and post follow office/edit hours.

What to wear

Smart-casual in the office; practical layers and comfortable shoes on set.

Tools & kit

Laptop, phone, notebook, budget and schedule documents.

Tips

Confirm credit, fee, schedule of payments, exclusivity and any backend on a signed deal memo or contract before starting.

Software

• Scriptation / PDF annotation
• Shot Designer / storyboard tools
• Movie Magic Scheduling (read-only)
• ChatGPT for draft shot-list notes (Director approves)

Related roles

Episode Director, Producer

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