Case studies: Television production assistant and secretary: Judith Lax

Judith is a production secretary on the TV programme Shameless. She has a BA in Contemporary Film and Video from Manchester Metropolitan University...

The subject I studied at university really helped with my career choice as it gave me a broad knowledge of filmmaking. My course did not teach me to be a production secretary but it gave me an idea of how a production can be run. I have acquired the necessary skills on the job.

It is quite difficult to say what I do day-to-day at work. I never really have the same day twice. My main responsibilities include making sure that the crew and actors have everything they need before filming, such as distributing scripts, schedules and a daily call sheet.

I am in charge of dealing with out of town artists and HODs (heads of departments) who visit Manchester each week for work. I find flats for HODs and cast members to live in while they are in Manchester, as well as booking actors into hotels each week.

I also answer the production phone and deal with a variety of issues. I book all additional crew that are needed for extra filming and cover. I answer fan mail and send out signed cast cards. I have also organised for competition winners to come and spend a day on the set.

Since joining the industry I have moved up from floor runner to production runner to production secretary. My career ambition is to make my own documentaries. I feel that I am gaining valuable experience in my current job to one day reach this goal, as production is the backbone of any filming crew.

I would ideally one day like to make documentaries focusing on social issues. I have, throughout the time since I left university, applied for various competitions and funding opportunities. I have never been chosen for any as yet but think it is really important to keep writing and keep your ideas flowing.

I enjoy most aspects of my job. I particularity enjoy the organisation of it. I love sorting people out and problem solving. I work closely with the accountant, line producer, producer, production coordinator and directors. All of these people have different needs and I have to adapt the way I work to what they want. I love to get to the end of the week and look back and realise what I've achieved.

The most challenging part of my job is juggling all the little things that I have to get through in a day. Sometimes I will have a to do list as long as my arm, then I can be so busy all day that I realise I haven't ticked anything off.

I have to be fully up to date with what is happening with all departments at all times. I need to communicate with a variety of people to do this and make sure that the key information is passed on.

The main advice I would give to anyone trying to get in to the TV industry would be to get as much experience as early as possible. Make friends with everyone and offer everyone a cup of tea. You never know who you are going to meet again and when.