PBA Online: Public Broadcasting Atlanta

Director of Radio- WABE 90.1FM

Department: Radio

Reports To: Sr. VP & General Manager

Summary

This is an official position responsible for the overall supervision of programming, format and sound of WABE. Supervises the Director of Arts & Cultural Programming, News Director, the Radio Operations Manager and Radio contract talent. The position is considered a PBA department Director level position that, in consultation with approval from the General Manager, sets forth plans, policies, implementation, goals and objectives for Radio and works collaboratively with other departments to achieve success in concert with and throughout the Public Broadcasting organization.

Accountabilities

  • Assumes a lead role in assuring that WABE-FM is meeting goals and following policies and procedures.
  • Participates with guidance from General Manager in CAST committees formed to include Board of Director’s support and input.
  • Oversees radio station personnel, programming, news and public affairs and operations.
  • Responsible for maintaining budget and financial operations in coordination with General Manager.
  • Plans yearly budget and works with the Chief Financial Officer and General Manager to ensure that financial goals and objectives are met and that spending occurs only with approved budget limits.
  • Oversees relations and compliance with CPB and other Federal and any appropriate State funding agencies.
  • Works in coordination with General Manager, Chief Engineer and IT staff to plan and implement new technology and equipment, ensures station’s technical and broadcast quality and ensures that station’s operations are in compliance with all applicable FCC and other federal and state regulations.
  • Reports to General Manager that all FCC, contractual and legal regulations and obligations are constantly and consistently observed and monitored for compliance and timely filing.
  • Works with General Manager, Director of Sales/Underwriting, Development and Communications Director in planning and promoting special events and fundraising activities.
  • Works with the Radio divisional Directors of Cultural & Arts, News, and the PBA Department Directors of Underwriting, Development and Communications to analyze and continuously fine tune the programming and maximize its appeal, audience, diversity, reach and revenue.
  • Works in coordination with General Manager and appropriate staff to direct WABE’s promotional strategies and processes including, but not limited to, radio on-air, WPBA-TV on-air, web, internet, print, outdoor and community promotional opportunities.
  • Oversees station’s relationship with its listeners and larger communities it serves by actively promoting the station, its programs and services. Helps to establish new partnerships as well as enhance existing partnerships with community leaders and groups to find more ways to reach a larger and more diverse audience. Helps to promote within the station the needs and interest of its licensee.
  • Maintains an active awareness of industry trends, rules and regulations and actively participates in regional, state and national affairs and meetings involving public radio.

Knowledge and Skills

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in communication or related field.
  • At least five (5) years experience in public radio preferably in management or a a combination or management and operations.
  • Supervisory experience, good organization and leadership qualities a must.
  • Keen and up-to-date knowledge and awareness of the public radio industry are critical.
  • An energetic, forward-thinking and creative individual with high ethical standards and an appropriate professional image. A strategic visionary with sound technical skills, analytical ability, good judgment and strong operational focus. A well organized and self-directed individual who is “politically savvy” and a team player. An intelligent and articulate individual who can relate to people at all levels of an organization and possesses excellent communication skills. A good educator who is trustworthy and willing to share information and serve as a mentor. An excellent negotiator who is experienced in contracts. A decisive individual who possesses a “big picture” perspective and is well versed in systems.
  • Ability to read, analyzes, and interprets documentation (ratings, technology, trends) as it relates to radio. Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints. Ability to make effective and persuasive speeches and presentations on controversial or complex topics to the Board and outside stakeholders. Computer literate, internet savvy, proficiency in MS Office.

Language Skills

  • Ability to read, analyzes, and interprets common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents.
  • Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from members, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community.
  • Ability to write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format.
  • Ability to effectively present information to top management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.

Mathematical Skills

  • Ability to apply basic mathematical equations and concepts. Understanding of basic accounting principles and functions.
  • Ability to determine test reliability and validity, analysis of variance, correlation techniques and factor analysis.

Reasoning Ability

  • Ability to define problems collects data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Individuals may need to sit or stand as needed. May require walking primarily on a level surface for periodic periods through out the day. Reaching above shoulder heights, below the waist or Lifting as required filing documents or store materials throughout the workday. Proper lifting techniques required.

Work Environment The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

For the most part ambient room temperatures, lighting and traditional office equipment as found in a typical office environment.

Submit resume to Human Resources.