Meet Patrick Phillips, Producer at Serif: A Conversation on Career and Creativity
We are happy to announce the addition of Patrick Phillips, Producer, to the Serif team. For Patrick, the production world isn’t just a career—it’s a dream turned reality. We at Serif Creative look forward to all of the ways that Patrick will make us a stronger team.
In this Q&A, we dive into his career, his biggest inspirations, and what he loves most about being a producer.
Q: Tell me a bit about your career and how you got here.
A: My career has spanned over 15 years, working on corporate, national, and local commercials, as well as feature films. I earned my A.A.S from Columbus State and a Producer Certification through UCLA Extension.
Q: Why did you join the Serif crew?
A: I have been a fan of Serif over the past few years as an outsider, and I really respect their work. I know having the opportunity to work with them will elevate me as a producer.
Q: What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
A: My outside-of-work life is really centered around my family. My son is a pre-teen and is involved in a lot of sports—baseball, wrestling, football, and soccer—so a lot of my time is spent being his driver and backyard coach.
Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired?
A: Two things motivate me: one, my family, and doing something they can be proud of. The second is that this is the only industry I’ve ever wanted to work in. I am literally living the dream—as cliché as that sounds, I am blessed to do something I truly love.
Q: What skills or qualities do you think are needed for success as a producer?
A: Active listening, being organized, and problem-solving.
Q: What’s a misconception you think people have about working in production/the film world?
A: The idea that you need a degree to be successful. I think it’s a huge misconception when looking for a job early on. You do not have to have a degree to be in this field. I value learning and I think that can be done by studying the work of artists you admire. Whether that is the David Lynches of the world of film or the creative director behind a commercial that made you laugh it is all part of our journey as creatives.
Q: An easy one—what’s your favorite coffee? Or coffee alternative if you’re not a coffee drinker?
A: I always ask to meet for coffee, but my go-to meeting drink is a good iced green tea with two sugars. I also live on energy drinks, as embarrassing as that is.
Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to get into the production world?
A: Build relationships and find a mentor. Once I found people that I could learn from and who poured into me and my career, I saw a big shift in my personal pathway.
Q: Do you have any favorite books, movies, or podcasts that inspire you?
A: I’ve read Making the Magic Happen by Peter D. Marshall a few times—it’s a nice short read with so many great points about filmmaking. I love comedy, so I enjoy films by John Hamburg, Adam McKay, and the Coen Brothers.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of work for you?
A: I enjoy the creative process and being able to collaborate with a team. The reward comes when we present something beyond the client’s expectations.
We’re thrilled to have Patrick as part of the Serif team and can’t wait to see the impact he’ll make. Whether he’s leading a production or mentoring the next generation of filmmakers over an iced green tea, Patrick brings an energy and vision that align with everything we value at Serif. Welcome to the team, Patrick—we’re excited for what’s ahead!
For more information, please contact:
info@serifcreative.com