Producing Tomorrow’s Producers: Graham Dunglinson on Communication and Kindness
Graham Dunglinson began his career in VFX at The Mill in London. With over two decades of experience he has produced-award winning projects for global brands, including M&M, Old Spice, Microsoft, Captain Morgan, and Squarespace.
He has regularly worked with companies such as Method Studios and Eight VFX, as well as Framestore. Since late 2023 he has worked at Subset Studios as an executive producer.
LBB> What advice would you give to any aspiring producers or content creators hoping to make the jump into production?
Graham> Be yourself. That’s what’s going to make a difference. Bringing good energy and good manners go a long way. Once you’ve made the jump into production, work hard, always have a laugh and be hungry to take on something i.e. volunteer to take on something new when asked.
LBB> What skills or emerging areas would you advise aspiring producers to learn about and educate themselves about?
Graham> Figure out what interests you (CG, AI, gaming, compositing, design, etc). Keep up to date with what’s going on but for production and for me key areas to learn are social skills (networking is a big part of the job), communication is everything as a producer. As the go-between from your team to your client bring clarity, and enthusiasm.
When things go wrong, which they will, work through it with good energy and kindness. Thinking on your toes is an invaluable skill. If you are a joy to work with and a knowledgeable team player, you will make moves.
LBB> What was the biggest lesson you learned when you were starting out in production - and why has that stayed with you?
Graham> Pre-emptively asking clients and artists if they needed something. Can be as simple as would you like a cup of tea or a glass of wine.
LBB> When it comes to broadening access to production and improving diversity and inclusion what are your team doing to address this?
Graham> Subset Studio is inclusive of everyone. We have a diverse mix of talent and we are so much better for it. Everyone’s unique life experience brings value.
LBB> And why is it an important issue for the production community to address?
Graham> Growth and humanity. Simply put we are all better for it.
LBB> There are young people getting into production who maybe don’t see the line between professional production and the creator economy, and that may well also be the shape of things to come. What are your thoughts about that? Is there a tension between more formalised production and the ‘creator economy’ or do the two feed into each other?
Graham> Yes, I believe they feed into each other and the same rules apply. Ebbs and flows change but be kind, be yourself, listen, learn, ask questions, communication is at the heart of everything. Learn how to read the room.
LBB> If you compare your role to the role of executive producers when you first joined the industry, what do you think are the most striking or interesting changes?
Graham> From working many years as a producer to becoming an executive producer was a seamless transition. One built directly into the other. Without my many years of producing experience as a foundation I would not be the executive producer I am today.
There have been monumental shifts in technology and the landscape changes but the art of producing stays the same. I love the work and have been fortunate to have had so many amazing experiences; some awful owes as well, which are valuable lessons. I love it all, the teams we’ve put together, the creative challenges, the clients and the daily buzz. It’s brilliant and so rewarding.
I am fortunate to have worked with and continue to work with the most incredible people. I have honed my skills from all the amazing leaders and colleagues I’ve worked with over the years. I never forget who they are, and I always try to be true to myself and pick up new skills and ideas on the journey. I never stop learning.
LBB> When it comes to educating producers how does your company like to approach this?
Graham> Great question. Producing skills do not come from technology or manuals. It’s an experience-based learning curve. You will know very quickly if this is for you or not.
Look around you and see who are the ones that are busy and show up daily. Learn from them. Surround yourself with smart people. Experience does count in this game. Listen and learn. Be patient. Ask questions. Make notes. Be organised at all times. Get your hands dirty and be available. It’s a wild ride.
LBB> It seems that there’s an emphasis on speed and volume when it comes to content - but to where is the space for up and coming producers to learn about (and learn to appreciate) craft?
Graham> Bug people. Be annoying. Who do you admire? Figure this out and see if you can find a wing to crawl under. Mentorship is golden.
LBB> On the other side of the equation, what’s the key to retaining expertise and helping people who have been working in production for decades to develop new skills?
Graham> Team morale is crucial, and each project is a unique journey.
I would say building the right team for the job is crucial especially in today’s world where deadlines are fast and furious. Making time for your team as a group and individually is important. We are all unique and bring something different to the table.
Life’s tough. Who knows what’s going on outside of the workplace. Just be kind no matter what. As an exec it’s my responsibility to ensure the well-being of my team. Day in day out. I ask myself what I can do to help and assist. What do you need to succeed. I love watching individuals grow and hone their craft. It’s the best part of my job. I never stand in the way of someone else getting their work done.
LBB> Clearly there is so much change, but what are the personality traits and skills that will always be in demand from producers?
Graham> Be charming, turn up, get your patter down. I strongly believe in each person’s uniqueness as that’s what makes each of us interesting. Work hard, listen, ask and grow. From that comes resourcefulness, creativity and knowledge. Which you then pass on to the next superstar.
