Jerry Smith
Producer
Chicago,IL
Summary
Small Business Owner and Executive Producer with a proven track record over 40 years, specializing in high-profile video documentation and content creation. Expert in project management and customer relations, successfully managing six-figure budgets and large production teams while mentoring talent. Recognized for enhancing brand awareness by creating high visibility content and fostering strong client relationships, driving repeat business and referrals.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Executive Producer
Clearstory Media
Chicago, IL
01.2011 - Current
- Developed and managed a self-sustaining "spinoff" business that focuses exclusively on the video documentation of large-scale and noteworthy structures to include Museums, Stadiums and super-tall high rises.
- Manage six-figure budget and hired/mentored over a dozen entry-level videographers and editors.
- Received OSHA Training with construction crews enabling open interaction with filmmakers and tradespeople on numerous high-rise projects.
- Clients included A-list real estate developers and general contractors and world renown architects.
- High profile projects include documentation of Jeanne Gang's 106 story St. Regis Hotel and residences, The University of Michigan and Rose Bowl Stadiums, Zaha Hadid's Museum of Modern Art and The Shedd Aquarium Renovation.
Owner/Executive Creative Director
Reel Story Productions
Chicago, IL
01.2002 - 01.2014
- Directed production schedules to optimize workflow efficiency and meet client deadlines.
- Developed and implemented marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and client engagement.
- Managed financial operations, including budgeting and expense tracking, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
- Oversaw project management from conception to completion, maintaining quality standards throughout production process.
- Managed $1 Million budgets for Fortune 500 clients' events and sales expos.
- Hired and collaborated with A-list talent like comedians Jay Leno and Howie Mandel and performers like Sugar Land and the Uptime Band.
- Pitched Television shows to major networks and talent agencies including NBC, MTV, Sony, USA, E! and Comedy Central, United Talent Agency and Endeavor
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Hired trained, and managed a high-performing team of employees dedicated to achieving company goals.
- Established a positive workplace culture that fostered employee engagement, collaboration, and loyalty.
- Enhanced operational efficiency and productivity by managing budgets, accounts, and costs.
- Mentored staff members on best practices in customer service and sales techniques, leading to increased performance levels.
Co-Founder
Big Picture Film & Video
Chicago
01.1997 - 01.2002
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Telecommunications
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI05-1995
Skills
- Customer relations
- Small business operations
- Proposal ands script writing
- Verbal and written communication
- Project management
- Marketing
- Strategic planning
- Team oversight
- Business launch
- Budget development
- Cinematographer
- Still Photographer
- Producer/director