The Script Clearance Department is a division of the Intellectual Property Department within the SPE Legal Department. The Department identifies and resolves all legal script clearance issues for SPE’s film, television, and virtual reality productions as mandated by the company’s E&O insurance policy to prevent legal claims and litigation.

The Animation Clearance Specialist manages the clearance needs on all SPAprojectsfrompre-productionthroughreleaseto identify, address,andresolve all intellectual property issues, including but not limited to issues of copyright, trademark, defamation, right of publicity, right of privacy, and product use. The Animation Clearance Specialist’s primary duties are to manage the day-to-day running of an animation production as it relates to the above-stated issue.This requires breaking down all scripts, script revisions, secure clearances, and reviewing all animation designs.

Responsibilities:

• Review all scripts and script revisions to identify all items for assessment, including, but not limited to, names, quotes, references, products, specified materials, and locations etc.
• Responsible for reviewing all of the research reports and identifying any issues that may require further research and/or investigation.
• Perform additional research, as necessary.
• Prepare script clearance reports, which include character assessment, identification of key issues, research of character and business names, and approval of props, set designs, and other items created by the animation team.  Script Clearance reports require that hundreds of decisions be made, and the Specialist must use good judgment and discretion to ensure that SPA Productions reflect the creator’s vision while at the same time following SPE policy and protecting SPA’s interests.
• Identify legal risks associated with items such as animation designs, including but not limited to, characters, businesses, locations, accessories, vehicles, and sets.  Direct production on how such risks should be addressed.
• Analyze, assess, and resolve all SCRY/SCOR items, including determining whether third-party permissions are required, whether changes/edits are required of Production, and whether the item is assessed as “permissible” or “not clear.”
• Proficient understanding of key legal agreements and deal terms, including license agreements and releases.  Negotiate key legal agreements and address high-level comments from opposing counsel.  Consult with studio attorneys when necessary.
• Manage relationships with SPA productions, publicity and marketing, and other parts of the studio as it relates to clearance issues on each project.

Requirements:

• Strong ability to work effectively and thrive in a team environment.  Good interpersonal skills are required.
• Enjoy working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).

• Must be a self-motivated, detail-oriented individual.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize work.
• Resolve clearance issues under tight deadlines.
• 3 or more years of experience working at a clearance service provider performing breakdowns and experience analyzing items for review.
• Strong computer skills (MS Word, Excel and Power Point) and excellent proofreading skills.
• High school graduate or equivalent (college degree preferred), with previous legal, contracts and/or motion picture/TV production experience.

The anticipated base salary for this position is $70,000-$90,000. This role may also qualify for annual incentive and/or comprehensive benefits. The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location of the position.

Sony Pictures Entertainment is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.

SPE will consider qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records in accordance with applicable law.

To request an accommodation for purposes of participating in the hiring process, you may contact us at SPE_Accommodation_Assistance@spe.sony.com.