My Journey To Sky Production Services – #13: Mark Sison (Senior Edit Assistant)

How It Started

What was your first ever job?

My first job was working for a small religious TV channel, where I was an editor cutting shows ranging from kid’s content to documentaries.

What brought you to Sky?

I was brought to SPS through the MAMA Youth Project. I went through their rigorous training programme as an editor to learn the ins and outs of TV, and then edit a show that was broadcast on Sky. I’ve been working at SPS for almost 5 years and huge credit goes to Bob Clarke and his entire team, who still help me out to this day.

How has your role evolved over the years?

My role has changed from a Trainee Edit Assistant to a Senior Edit Assistant and my role has expanded to video editing for Sky Sports News, Entertainment, and social media.

What were your biggest professional challenges and how did you overcome them?

My biggest professional challenge came about in my previous job, where I was dealing with new clients every other day. At the time, my interpersonal skills weren’t the greatest and I’ve worked hard to develop them to the point where I now feel totally comfortable with clients. My greatest achievement would probably be every edit that gets broadcast on TV – each time I get better and better.

How It’s Going

What does your day to day work life look like?

Currently, I’m a dedicated edit assistant for Sky’s Hitmen, which is on their second series. I help the offline & online editors with whatever requests they may have, so some days it can just be a mere export or answering a tech question, but most of the time it can be quite unique & challenging. Challenging like being asked to cut a scene together for the director to view, and unique like the other day when I helped remove a giant spot from an actress’ forehead. I also deal with preparing our cut sequences for VFX, grade, foley and ADR delivering them to external post houses adhering to their guidelines.

What’s been your SPS career highlight and why?

My SPS career highlight is being requested to work on important projects. I knew once external clients started asking me, I was pretty good at what I do.

What can you see yourself doing next?

Hopefully, I can move up the rungs and become a full-time editor for Sky. I’ve cut a few things for Sky already and I feel like my next challenge is there.

How It Can Be Done

What are your top 3 tips for becoming a Senior Edit Assistant?

• Don’t be afraid to ask people for help.
• Be nice to the bookings team.
• When Post Production goes for drinks, you go. Socialising and networking are the best ways to move in this industry!

What would you tell your 16-year-old self?

YouTube is a better teacher than Lynda or DigitalTutors for editing, so don’t waste your money on that. Also, invest money into Bitcoin.