Commercial Director Agreement Checklist

The following are a list of some key business issues to consider when a commercial production company is considering entering into an agreement with a commercial director.

1. Term. 

2. Services. 

3. Territory.

4. Approval rights.

5. Exclusivity.

6. Sales and promotion.

7. Director fees.

8. Profit participation, including how profits are calculated, overhead charges, etc. 

9. Compensation for non-commercial projects, such as music videos.

10. Additional bonuses, perks, etc.

11. Reimbursable expenses.

12. Director’s cuts and spec spots.

13. Audit rights.

14. DGA initiation fee.

15. Employer and employee share of DGA contributions.

16. Termination rights.

17. Key person.