Animation Production Management 2026

This 8-week course provides a practical introduction to animation production management. Participants will explore scheduling, budgeting, software tools, finance processes, sustainability, inclusivity, and leadership within animation production. The course features guest speakers from industry and aims to build a supportive professional network. Cohorts are kept small so every participant is seen and heard, and participants are encouraged to share digital business cards ahead of the first session.

Who it's for

This training programme is designed for mid- to senior-level professionals working in, or transitioning into, animation production management. It is ideal for those who already have experience in production or related roles and are looking to deepen their knowledge of scheduling, budgeting, pipelines, software tools, tax credits and team leadership. The programme supports individuals seeking to advance into more senior production positions—such as Line Producer, Production Supervisor or Production Manager—or those who want to refresh their skills to meet the evolving demands of the animation industry. With only 30 places available, it offers a focused environment for driven professionals ready to strengthen their expertise and expand their industry network.

What it covers

General aims:

• Core skills for growth in animation production management
• Broader understanding of the production management role across the industry
• Confidence with key software tools
• A long-lasting network of production colleagues

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Plan and manage animation productions using industry-standard scheduling and budgeting methods
• Understand and apply UK and international tax-credit processes
• Use production software and AI tools to support workflow and communication
• Read and track budgets, payroll and cost reports
• Develop sustainable and inclusive production practices
• Lead and support teams effectively
• Identify career pathways and build strong industry networks

Weekly Sessions

• W/c 9th March
• w/c 16th March
• w/c 23rd March
• w/c 30th March
• Easter/spring holidays
• w/c 13th April
• w/c 20th April
• w/c 27th April
• w/c 4th May

Session 1 — Welcome

Overview of animation production roles, responsibilities and career pathways. Building peer networks and identifying personal development goals.

Session 2 — Scheduling & Budgeting

How different animation formats impact schedules and costs. Practical exercises in building a basic schedule and budget. Managing pipeline issues and delivery timelines.

Session 3 — Production Software & AI

Introduction to tools such as ShotGrid, FTrack, Slack, Teams, Silvermouse and Hightail. Discussion of AI in production workflows, opportunities and limitations.

Session 4 — UK Tax Credits & Co-Productions

How UK animation tax credits work, what documentation is required, and how international co-productions structure funding.

Session 5 — Understanding Budgets

Reading and interpreting production budgets. Working with production accountants. Tracking daily spend, payroll, holidays and sick leave.

Session 6 — Sustainability

Implementing sustainable office and production practices, including Albert certification. Identifying environmental impact points in the pipeline and sustainable on-screen representation.

Session 7 — People Management & Inclusivity

Inclusive hiring, conflict resolution, well-being support and building psychologically safe teams. Balancing remote and in-house workflows.

Session 8 — Round-Up & Next Steps

Final review, Q&A, career planning and networking. Guidance on job searching and maintaining industry connections.

Course Lead

Hannah Lee Miller, animation production specialist with 15 years’ experience, including producing Peppa Pig. Guest speakers join throughout the course to contribute specialist insights.

How to apply

Please apply via this page.

Contact information

Name: Joanne Kerr
Email: jkerr@nfts.co.uk