What is a Literary Manager & Do You Need One?

What Is a Literary Manager & Do You Need One in 2025?

If you’re a writer or director looking to break into the film and TV industry, you’ve probably heard of literary managers—but what exactly do they do? And in 2025, are they still essential for career growth?

What Does a Literary Manager Do?

A literary manager is more than just someone who shops your scripts around. They guide and develop your career, helping you make long-term strategic moves rather than just short-term deals.

✅ Script Development & Creative Feedback – From your first logline to a polished screenplay, your manager helps shape your work before it goes to agents, producers, or studios.

✅ Career Strategy & Industry Positioning – Where are you now? Where do you want to be? A manager creates a roadmap to get you there, connecting you with the right opportunities.

✅ Packaging & Pitching Projects – Managers leverage their networks to attach producers, directors, and talent to your project, making it more attractive to financiers and buyers.

✅ Helping Secure an Agent – While agents focus on closing deals, managers often work with you before you even need an agent, helping you build credits, relationships, and marketability.

✅ Navigating the Business Side – In the U.S., licensed literary managers can also negotiate deals, similar to agents, but with a broader, long-term focus.

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Do Writers & Directors Still Need Literary Managers in 2025?

The industry is evolving—streamers, independent financing, and AI-driven content discovery are changing the landscape. However, a literary manager remains one of the best assets for writers and directors navigating this shifting environment.

📌 Emerging writers benefit from a manager’s ability to develop their voice, refine projects, and access industry connections.

📌 Directors & showrunners gain strategic representation, helping them position their careers beyond a single project.

📌 With more global opportunities than ever, managers now work across borders, helping clients secure deals in Hollywood, Europe, and beyond.

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How to Know If You’re Ready for a Literary Manager

🔹 You have at least one high-quality, ready-to-pitch script or project.
🔹 You’re serious about a long-term career in film or TV—not just selling one script.
🔹 You’re looking for strategic guidance, industry connections, and career development.

If that sounds like you, it might be time to seek a literary manager who aligns with your goals.