How the Ombuds Office Serves Independent Filmmakers
Conflict Without a Safety Net
Independent filmmakers often wear multiple hats—director, producer, HR, logistics coordinator. But what happens when conflict arises on set and there’s no formal HR team to turn to? From personality clashes to harassment allegations, small productions face serious emotional and legal risks when there’s no neutral party to help resolve issues.
Enter the ombuds office: a confidential, unbiased resource that supports emotionally charged situations without judgment or escalation. It provides a secure environment where individuals can discuss issues openly with the ombuds without fear of retaliation. For indie filmmakers, access to an ombuds could mean the difference between resolution and rupture.
What Is an Ombuds, Exactly?
An ombuds (short for ombudsperson) is a trained, independent professional who helps individuals navigate workplace conflict in a confidential and non-confrontational way. An ombuds doesn’t report to company leadership or make disciplinary decisions. The ombuds operates independently from management and does not have investigatory powers.
Instead, they:
Listen and validate concerns.
Help individuals explore options.
Provide informal conflict resolution and referrals.
Perform key functions such as facilitating issue resolution, analyzing problems, and providing information about available options.
Because ombuds don’t impose outcomes or file formal complaints, they’re seen as a confidential space to talk through issues honestly.
Common Issues on Indie Sets Where Ombuds Can Help
On-set power struggles or favoritism
When crew, cast, or managers feel sidelined or unheard, an ombuds can mediate communication and offer solutions.
Bullying, verbal harassment, or exclusion
Every production can create toxic dynamics. An ombuds can help address behavior before it becomes abuse. If there is a risk of serious harm to any individual, the ombudsman is prepared to act.
The Value of Neutrality in Creative Conflict
On indie sets, tension often builds from unresolved misunderstandings. An ombuds:
Serves as a sounding board without taking sides.
Facilitates difficult conversations before they escalate.
Offers coaching for both conflict resolution and emotional intelligence.
Advocates for fair process and respect for all parties' interests.
This neutrality is key in emotionally charged environments where everyone’s reputation and the project’s future are on the line, as the ombuds promotes fair processes and respect among all involved.
How to Access an Ombuds When You Don’t Have One On Staff
Most indie sets won’t have a full-time ombuds. But that doesn’t mean you can’t use one. If you encounter issues or need guidance, consider contacting ombuds services for confidential assistance.
Visit the MyConnext Ombuds services: This service is available to all workers within film and TV. You can schedule time with them by visiting the MyConnext website.
Partner with external ombuds services: Many consultants offer on-call or part-time ombuds support. These services can help connect filmmakers with available resources, such as legal, counseling, or organizational support, to address concerns thoroughly.
Use digital platforms: MyConnext.org offers ombuds-style support through confidential incident tracking and optional escalation.
Plan for it: Include ombuds support in your production budget or grant proposals as a safety line item.
Why Every Independent Producer Should Consider Ombuds Support
The benefits of ombuds access include:
Higher crew trust and retention.
A healthier, safer set culture.
Ability to identify trends and systemic problems within the organization, and make recommendations to address organizational issues.
Support Makes Better Stories
Independent filmmaking doesn’t mean operating without support. Conflict is inevitable, but emotional harm doesn’t have to be. Bringing in an ombuds, whether digitally or in person, helps keep productions on track and protects the people making the art happen. Respectful collaboration is more than a goal—it’s the foundation of sustainable creative work.
