Les Dawson
Kapiti Coast
Summary
A resourceful visual story teller and producer with 24+ years of experience and a passion for documentary and factual storytelling.
Experienced in managing, producing and delivering a wide range of video product for television and more recently online platforms.
Experienced in all aspects of production from pre to post, able and driven to deliver captivating video stories on time and within budget through excellent communication and project management techniques.
Personal and employer satisfaction is of great importance to me and I take great pride in my work, constantly looking for new ways to tell a story while aspiring to produce the best result possible.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Video Production
NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE FORCE
01.2015 - Current
- Manage a small team of Video Producers to ensure timely project completion and consistent quality across all deliverables.
- Mentoring junior team members, fostering a collaborative environment that encouraged professional growth.
- Oversaw creative development and filming of different types of video content.
- Balanced multiple productions simultaneously under tight deadlines without compromising quality or exceeding budget constraints.
- Increased video production efficiency by streamlining workflows and implementing time-saving technologies.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to produce compelling visual content, driving brand awareness and audience engagement.
- Developed, introduced and managed NZDFs Public Affairs UAS Flight Management systems and policies.
- Collaborated with interagency partners to coordinate communication efforts during joint humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations.
Freelance Producer, Director, Camera
SELF EMPLOYED
01.2001 - Current
- Cultivated a strong reputation within the industry for delivering high-quality content on time and within budget constraints through consistent hard work and dedication.
- Collaborated with producers to develop compelling storylines, creating engaging television experiences.
- Presented production ideas and determined creative scenarios for production and delivery.
- Oversaw pre production, production and post-production processes to ensure a polished final product.
- Maximized efficiency on set by effectively delegating tasks to crew members according to their respective expertise.
- Adapted quickly to unexpected changes or issues during filming, maintaining professionalism under pressure to deliver top-notch results.
Education
Diploma - Film And Television Production
South Seas Film & Television School
Auckland2000
Skills
- Video Production
- Visual storytelling
- Directing
- Camera Operation
- Editing - AVID, FCPX, Premier (basic)
- Live streaming
- 360 Video Production
- Drone operation
- Documentary production
Work Samples
Exaples of my online work for the New Zealand Defence Force can be found via the NZDF YouTube channel.
http://www.youtube.com/@NZDefenceForce
A more detailed list of my television credits and history can be viewed via my LinkedIn profile.
www.linkedin.com/in/lesdawson
Timeline
Head of Video Production
NEW ZEALAND DEFENCE FORCE
01.2015 - Current
Freelance Producer, Director, Camera
SELF EMPLOYED
01.2001 - Current
Diploma - Film And Television Production
South Seas Film & Television School
Similar Profiles
Cherrie LawsonCherrie Lawson
Facilities Support Officer at New Zealand Defence Force, Linton Military Camp, New ZealandFacilities Support Officer at New Zealand Defence Force, Linton Military Camp, New Zealand
Tom CORNELIUSTom CORNELIUS
Project/Programme Coordinator at New Zealand Defence ForceProject/Programme Coordinator at New Zealand Defence Force
Mae HenryMae Henry
Human Resources Manager at New Zealand Defence ForceHuman Resources Manager at New Zealand Defence Force