Stepping Stones: HBS production coordinator Rebecca Rene-Bois on fighting back against imposter syndrome
Rebecca Rene-Bois, HBS production coordinator, has arrived at the sports broadcasting industry via intellectual property law, which is an unconventional route, but one that means she is a focused problem solver. Our conversation with Rene-Bois is one of our Stepping Stones articles, which bring you new talent in the sports broadcasting landscape.
What is your job role today and what do you love about it?
I’m a production coordinator (non-live content oriented) for HBS. My job is basically to make sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes of the production. Whether it’s managing the schedule, organising resources, handling budgets or communicating with different teams, I make sure everything is on track. I try to solve problems as they come up and keep things organised because the show must go on!
What I love the most about doing this is the fast-paced environment and the opportunity to work with a wide range of people.
What does your current job entail on a day-to-day basis?
On a typical day, being a production coordinator involves juggling multiple tasks to keep the production process on track. My role can change depending on the project, but generally there are three different stages in which my missions evolve: planning, event time and post-event.
Then, it’s a mix of coordinating with different departments, checking in on schedules, handling last-minute requests and making sure we have everything we need, whether it’s a piece of equipment, a location, or a random thing someone forgot to do (yep, that happens!).
Between all that, I’m managing budgets, paperwork and keeping track of expenses, all while trying to stay ahead of the game to be prepared as much as possible for eventual problems.
Can you talk us through your relevant education that helped you break into the sports broadcasting industry?
Sorry, but I’m certainly not the right example in terms of educational background, as I have a degree in intellectual property law which has little to do with sport.
The good thing, from what I’ve seen working with lots of different people, is that everyone comes from different backgrounds and there isn’t just one possible path. However, if you want to, I’m pretty sure there are schools that can help you break into this field with a degree in sports management.
How did you get your first job in sports broadcasting, what was the role, and when?
I got the job that I still have a year ago as a production coordinator, so I’m still new to the business, but not so new to production.
I’ve done a number of jobs for documentaries, live streaming and web series content. In the end, my former boss – Quentin Lepoutre – who worked in sports broadcasting, recommended me to work at HBS and the sport broadcasting industry, and I’m very glad he did.
What happened next to get you where you are today?
To make up for the lack of formal education in this industry and to fight back my imposter syndrome I started by diving in, getting experience in any way I could through internships, volunteering and taking on small roles that allowed me to learn the ropes. The more I learned, the more I enjoyed the process, whether organising logistics or solving problems on set.
I connected with mentors for guidance and had a passion for creative collaboration. Through it all, I trusted the process, taking it one step at a time.
Where job would you like to be in in five- or 10-years’ time? What are your career goals?
The problem with my ‘yes-man’ mentality is that I find it hard to see myself 10 years down the line, as I want to remain open to any opportunities/adventures that come my way.
However, I’d like to be in a job where I can lead teams and shape projects from start to finish; to express ideas on a creative level while still being involved in high-level strategic planning, helping to run entire productions and still looking after the detail. I’d also like to work in a position where I can mentor others, sharing the knowledge I’ve gained over the years. Dream big they say!
Can you give us some top tips that really helped you get where you are today?
Stay organised, always: It sounds basic, but staying on top of schedules, emails, and paperwork is key.
Be adaptable: Things change all the time in production, so to stay flexible and quickly adapt to new situations is a huge asset
Communicate/Build relationships: I spend a lot of time talking to people because in the end it’s all about teamwork!
Learn to manage stress and take care of yourself: Taking time for self-care will help you stay focused and at your best.
Can you give us some tips on things not to do or to avoid when trying to get a role you really want?
Follow up, but don’t be that person who’s emailing every day!
What would you say are the barriers to getting a job in the broadcast industry?
It’s a super-competitive industry, and sometimes you might feel like it’s about who you know as much as what you know!
Plus, it isn’t known for its typical 9 to 5 schedule. This can be a challenge if you’re looking for a better work-life balance, and it may require a change of mindset to be comfortable with the demands of the job.
What would you recommend to other people thinking of working in the broadcast industry?
Don’t worry if you can’t land your dream job right away, you can learn from every position.
Be open to exploring different areas and you may discover a part of the industry you really love that you hadn’t considered before. Get up and try!
On Wednesday 19 March, SVG Europe Women is hosting A City United, a learning, inspiration and networking event taking place at the Hot House in MediaCity, Salford, in association with Dock10. Find out more and register here.