Head of Production and Development, Sandbox Films - New York, United States - Simons Foundation

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Executive Director, Sandbox Films seeks a Head of Production and Development who is responsible for managing the editorial process at Sandbox Films. The ideal candidate should bring experience developing, producing, financing and/or programming independent nonfiction feature documentaries, as well as a genuine passion for mission-driven documentary and innovative science storytelling.

The Head of Production will play a significant role in helping to field pitches, deciding what projects to finance, overseeing partnerships, and this individual will be a main point of contact for all Sandbox Films productions from development through production and finishing. The selected candidate must possess experience managing staff and strong multi-tasking skills.

This is a full-time position based in our offices in New York City.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide direct support and act as a main point of contact to the Sandbox Films slate of documentaries. This includes:
  • Aid in production of active Sandbox Films documentaries. Meet with artists regularly throughout development, production and post, including joining bi-weekly production calls with film teams and keeping on top of all production schedules and deliverables.
  • Identify and hire creative consultants for Sandbox projects.
  • Screen film cuts at various stages and provide notes.
• Work closely with Director and the Sandbox staff to screen film pitches, meet with artists who have interesting film ideas, as well as aid in the assessment of what projects to finance.
• Support all aspects of film development (i.e., researching ideas, pre-interviewing subjects, optioning books, etc.)
• Aid in oversight of partnerships.
• Manage two Sandbox Films Associate Producers.
• Support film distribution efforts, as needed, collaborating with the Head of Distribution.
• Build a network of partners from creatives (directors, producers, editors, cinematographers) to distributers and funders who are aware of and excited about Sandbox Films and its mission. This includes attending networking events and festivals, meeting with production companies and key industry players and continuing to evolve the Sundance partnership.
• In execution of all the above: collaborate efficiently; communicate clearly and proactively; treat all colleagues with respect; ask for assistance when needed; and ensure all deadlines are met.

MINIUMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent work experience in film/production and/or science communication.

Experience

• At least 7-10 years of experience in the film industry as a film financier (decision maker), festival programmer, film producer, and/or studio executive.
• Must have experience as a people manager.
• Production skills, knowledge of film budgets and schedules.
• Experience in assessing film pitches and giving notes on films (mastery of a story arc, etc.).
• Connections and established network within the independent documentary industry (industry executives as well as independent artists - directors, producers, editors, DoPs, etc) and an understanding of industry trends and audience consumption patterns.

Related Skills and Other Requirements

• Excellent communication skills and prior experience in fast-paced, sometimes high-stress environments.
• Meticulous attention to detail and highly process oriented, as well as ability to multitask and shift responsibilities quickly.
• Comfort in working autonomously as well as asking for information when needed.
• Enthusiasm about the Sandbox Films' mission a must.
• Confidence with science communication and interfacing with scientists.

Required Application Materials

• Rsum
• Cover letter describing your interest in the position

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• The full-time annual compensation range for this position is $165,000-$200,000, depending on experience.
• In addition to competitive salaries, the Simons Foundation provides employees with an outstanding benefits package.

About Sandbox Films

Sandbox Films is a documentary film company that illuminates the art and beauty of scientific inquiry: humankind's weird, messy, brilliant way of navigating the world. We're a nimble organization that brings together clashing viewpoints, industries and approaches. We collaborate with production partners and visionary filmmakers around the world, providing co-production and financing opportunities for bold documentaries. Sandbox Films, LLC is funded by the Simons Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the frontiers of scientific research. More at

Sandbox Films Diversity & Inclusion Commitment

As in life, we believe science is richer when more perspectives are considered. This is especially true for science storytelling, wherein the experts we showcase and the voices we elevate have untold impacts on shaping the public face of knowledge and authority. With this in mind, one of the founding motivations for launching Sandbox Films is to make science documentary more inclusive. In addition to increasing diversity onscreen, we seek to collaborate with artists behind the camera who have different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives.

We can't accomplish any of this if we don't extend the same philosophy to our workplace. As such, we are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive work environment. Sandbox Films actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.