Is there still a need for someone to manage the client? Yep.
Is there still a need for someone to manage the team, timeline, and budget? Yep.
But, not only do clients overwhelmingly prefer to work directly with the ones doing the work, they're tired of paying for middlemen. They want a point of contact who can roll up their sleeves and get shit done. And that's the essence of a producer.
What is a producer?
A producer is the ultimate unicorn. They can lead clients and teams to success, but can also execute something. Maybe they can lead strategy, oversee product, edit videos, or work with AI to take a first pass at everything. Think about producers in Hollywood. They're actually the ones in charge. They oversee the budget. Hire the cast and crew. They pull everything and everyone together – which is what it truly takes to make the magic.
Producers support businesses in the same way. Whether they collaborate with clients (like at an agency) or in-house teams, they come with tools and a network of human beings to get the job done.
Why project management tools will slowly die.
The future of work looks like lean teams powered by AI and a flexible network. Gone are the days when you'd need massive teams to get something done. Now, you just need one person: a producer, who can work with AI to get as much done as possible and then pull in the right resources at the right moment to bring the project over the finish line. This lean and agile way of working demands a different platform to support it. Project management tools (like Monday.com or Asana) were designed to get in the weeds (James, do this thing by Thursday). But AI is about to eliminate junior to mid level jobs, which by the way, are the very kinds of people that need to be managed. People who are experts at what they do, don't need to be managed. They just need to know:
The mission
The context
Where they fit
And where they can find what they need
That's why we use Jauntboards – the ultimate tool for producers. Last month, one of our producers completed a project that normally takes 3 weeks... in 20 minutes. Because we had so much extra budget left over, we were able to pull in humans to add their magic. With a mind-blowing margin, to spare.
And that's why AI-powered producers are going to be in huge demand.
How to reposition yourself as a producer:
Start calling yourself one
Get clear on what executional skill(s) you bring to the table
Prioritize working with AI
Build a network of freelance and fractional talent you can quickly tap
If you're already independent, get powered by a platform like Jauntboards and begin selling monthly retainer services
If you're still an employee, start a side hustle. People like you are in demand.
Consider joining Jumpsuit's independent network – as we continue to grow, we continue to need the most kick ass producers on the planet.
About Jumpsuit, the agency who killed the AMs and PMs and exclusively works with producers. For client inquiries, please go here.
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