TV director

What does a TV director do? – Tasks and work environment

A TV director is responsible for the artistic and technical overall during the production of TV programs, series, entertainment, and live broadcasts. The profession involves leading creative teams, making decisions about visuals, set design, and directing, as well as communicating the vision to cinematographers, sound engineers, producers, and other staff. The work environment is often characterized by a fast pace, varying working hours, and a strong focus on collaboration. Filming takes place both in studios and on location, which requires flexibility, leadership, and the ability to handle rapid changes.

Salary development over time

The salary development for TV directors has been relatively stable over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,400 SEK per month, then increased to 47 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has been adjusted to 45 700 SEK, representing a decrease of about 2.8% from the previous year. Despite this, salary levels remain high within the profession. The temporary decline can partly be explained by market adjustments and changes in production volumes. There are also signs that competition for assignments has increased, which may influence salary development for both permanent and freelance directors. Overall, the salary remains high compared to many other creative media professions.

TV director salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,600 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 54,000 SEK/month (male, private sector)
• Hourly wage: 275 SEK
• Women: 47 400 SEK/month
• Men: 44 100 SEK/month
• Women earn: 107% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Salary levels vary, with higher salaries in metropolitan areas and for larger productions

Education and qualifications

To work as a TV director, a post-secondary education in film, TV, or directing is usually required, typically lasting at least 3 years. Many hold an artistic bachelor's degree, often supplemented with specialized courses and internships in TV media. Practical experience and networking are central to establishing oneself in the industry, and many start their careers as assistants or production staff.

• Post-secondary education: Bachelor's programs in film, media, or directing (3 years or more)
• Specialized courses: TV directing, scriptwriting, dramaturgy
• Internships: Industry experience through internships or trainee programs is recommended
• Prerequisites: Creative ability, leadership, and technical understanding
• Further education: Courses in new technology, digital production, and media management

Common benefits and compensation

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as flexible working hours, options for remote work during certain production phases, wellness allowances, and sometimes access to technical equipment are often offered. Freelance assignments may also include fees for inconvenient working hours, overtime, and travel. For permanent employees, collective agreements are common, providing extra security and pension benefits.

Competition and challenges

The market for TV directors is characterized by fierce competition, where the number of applicants often exceeds the number of available positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast, there is a surplus within the profession, and job opportunities are limited both now and in the next five years. The entry into the profession is often long, requiring documented experience and a strong network to establish oneself. Technological changes and new production formats also demand continuous skills development. Despite these challenges, the profession attracts with creative opportunities and a wide variety of tasks.

Tips for aspiring TV directors

To succeed as a TV director, it is good to build a broad network early on and gain practical experience in various roles within production teams. Creativity and the ability to think outside the box are essential to stand out, while good organizational skills help manage complex projects. Being communicative and clear facilitates teamwork and helps realize your vision. Flexibility and stress resilience are important, as production pace is often high and conditions can change rapidly. It is also wise to continually update skills in new technology and storytelling methods to stay relevant. Strong drive and patience are necessary, as competition is tough and the path to prestigious assignments can be long. Finally, it is advantageous to identify your strengths early and profile yourself within specific genres or production formats.

Key facts about TV directors

• Salary range: 39,600–54,000 SEK/month
• Educational level: Post-secondary degree (3 years or more)
• Work environment: Studio- and location-based, often high pace
• Demand: Limited opportunities, surplus workforce
• Number of job openings in the profession: 620

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a TV director, it is common to take on larger and more complex productions, such as drama series or live events. Some choose to specialize in a particular genre, e.g., documentary, entertainment, or children's programs, while others advance to roles such as executive producer or production manager. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast, the job market is stable but competitive, with limited opportunities and an oversupply of qualified applicants. The number of new positions is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. For those seeking further development, international work or related fields such as commercials, streaming productions, or educational media are also options.

Common questions about TV directors

• What does a TV director earn?
  - A TV director has an average salary of 45 700 SEK per month, with a range between 39,600 and 54,000 SEK.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 47 400 SEK while men earn 44 100 SEK. Women thus earn 107% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a TV director?
  - Post-secondary education in film, TV, or directing of at least 3 years is recommended, preferably complemented with internships.
• What is the job market like for TV directors?
  - Competition is fierce with limited opportunities for permanent positions and an oversupply of qualified applicants.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Creativity, leadership, stress resilience, and good communication skills are especially important.
• What are the job responsibilities of a TV director?
  - Leading production teams, making decisions about directing, visuals, and set design, and ensuring the vision is realized during broadcast.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries are generally higher in metropolitan areas and for larger productions.