The aim of any project we work on is to effectively communicate our client’s message. If you can see how it all came together, we aren’t doing our jobs correctly. But – there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes. Over the next few months, we will be shining a light on the different roles that go into making each and every project we work on unforgettable!
If our Head of Production, Laura, could choose to be any animated character; she would be She-Ra. We couldn’t agree with that self-assessment more. A total boss babe, trailblazing in a world full of macho men – while looking fabulous at the same time!
Before starting at Production Attic, Laura had a background in journalism and events; and her role with us allows her to use her skills of both storytelling and organising. As a journalist, Laura worked for the Sunday Mail for a decade, originally starting as a junior copy girl and working her way up to page editor on the Sports Desk. After leaving journalism, Laura began working in fundraising, running high profile events. This eventually led her to launch her own events company in 2009.
Shortly after Laura’s son was born, she worked part time for another film company. What stuck out most to Laura when working at a film company, was the journey both the client and film would take her on. When a fulltime position arose at Production Attic, she jumped at the opportunity.
As Head of Production, Laura does everything – except, in her own words; ‘Play with the toys.’ It is Laura’s job to support the client from start to finish – through each stage of production. She is in charge of scripting, casting, location scouting, booking crew / talent, coordinating postproduction schedules and dealing with all of our final deliveries. It is a role that is hugely varied, and we are very fortunate to have someone as skilled as Laura who can take it all on!
A skill that often goes unnoticed is Laura’s ability to organise! As an organised person, she admits that it took her a while to see it as a skill. Of course – it is a huge one. Not everyone’s brain works in that way – and it is great to have someone who is able to think ten steps ahead and have a plan for every eventuality. For someone who juggles so many different projects and roles, it is an invisible skill that keeps us all afloat!
An overall career highlight for Laura is from her time in the fundraising world and what she was able to achieve and give back to the community. A standout is raising £45,000 for the Scottish Huntington’s Association at a celebrity golf tournament (especially since she had never played golf and had no prior knowledge). At Production Attic, Laura enjoys any project that involves storytelling – especially when the subject of an interview opens up to her as a producer. Each of the Football Saved My Life films for the Scottish FA will forever be a career highlight for Laura.
“It’s been an honour to spend time with Paul, Gary, Isla, Sarah and Rebecca, hear about their highs and lows and get such an insight into their lives.” – Laura
As for personal achievements, Laura had her son Charlie in 2012 and has been a single parent since 2017. “I can’t explain how proud he makes me and how proud I am of myself at my career progression in spite of the challenges parenting responsibilities can bring!”
Through observing his mum’s work, Charlie has developed a love of both watching and making films. Laura has raised a keen film buff and Charlie has even starred in a couple of Production Attic Films!
It is a huge benefit to us that Laura has had such a diverse career and is able to apply all of the skills she has learned to the role she holds with us. Here’s looking forward to many more projects guided by our own personal She-Ra!
