Assistant Programme Manager

Job description

Key purpose of role The Assistant Programming Manager is responsible for implementing the station’s programming and content strategy to grow audiences across both terrestrial and digital platforms. Reporting to the programme manager and assisting in running the programming team operationally. This role fosters a creative, productive, and collaborative environment that enables on-air talent and support teams to deliver compelling content outside of AM and PM drive. The assistant programming manager will be responsible for coaching junior on-air talent to reach their broadcasting potential, aligning content with audience preferences, and supporting the commercial function through campaign ideation, seamless execution, and a client-centric approach. The role importantly will look at pushing digital transformation on-air and behind the scenes while also managing daily Programming operational needs and content implementation. Key performance areas Sound of the station: Implementing the programming strategy with programme manager and station manager.Drive audience growth through improved exclusive listening and time spent listening.Leading the growth of station’s share of audience in its footprint.Building and growing the audience within target market in Gauteng.Conceptualizing, creating and implementing content across the station: Including booking on Aquira, monitoring campaigns and post air reviews.Assisting producers in the effective execution of commercial and editorial content on their shows.Managing and coaching the AMP squad.Monitoring adherence to music and programming discipline by presenters and producers across the lineup.Providing guidance and regular feedback to presenters and producers to enable growth and development with a special focus outside of AM and PM drive.Improvement in the sound of the station by collaborating with the programming and music team.On-air direction to ensure delivery:Deliver engaging content aligned with audience expectations and station strategyPartner with radio consultants to ensure growth in the target audience.Ensure brand positioning is reflected across all shows.Work with producers and on-air talent to ensure tight programming in line with the station strategy.Run programming meetings to ensure the programming team is fully briefed on station activities.Provide structured and informal feedback to talent via air checks and regular sessions.Training and development: Support talent development, succession planning, and mentorship.Continuously identify and nurture new talent for the station.Collaborate with the commercial sales team to develop client-aligned content and ensure flawless campaign implementation.Ensure flawless implementation of unsold and sold campaigns by the programming team including on-air talent.Digital growth: Work closely with the Digital Producers and Digital Content Editors to improve and deepen our relationship with the listener.Ensure that the programming team effectively uses station’s platforms to improve and deepen the station’s relationship with its clients by delivering on commercial campaigns.Innovate using digital tools to assist in optimizing the programming team.Financial performance: Manage freelance budget.Manage contracts and salaries of freelance presenters.

Requirements

Minimum required qualification: Tertiary qualification in relevant fieldQualifications considered advantageous: Additional management qualification will be an advantageMinimum years of experience: Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in Commercial Music Radio and Music Radio Programming Additional role requirements: Willingness and ability to travel as required.Possession of a valid driver’s license.In-depth knowledge of the South African radio landscape, with a strong understanding of music radio formats and audience preferences.Demonstrated senior-level experience in digital and social media strategy and execution.Proven editorial judgment across all content areas, ensuring high-quality and compliant programming.Strong leadership and people management capabilities, with experience leading multidisciplinary teams.Excellent administrative and reporting skills, with attention to detail and accountability.A passion for innovation and creativity, with a track record of execution excellence.Ability to balance creative and commercial imperatives, with effective management of cross-functional workflows.Sound financial acumen, including experience managing and tracking programming budgets.Proficient in interpreting radio audience measurement tools and insights (e.g., BRC RAM data).Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, creative, and data-driven environment.Deep understanding of content performance across streaming and social platforms (e.g. Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok).Strong communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling written, visual, and video presentations.Skilled in relationship building and stakeholder management, both internally and externally.Collaborative team player with the confidence to lead, coach, and develop on-air talent.Strong background in radio broadcasting, with insight into the relationship between content and commercial outcomes.Experience in analysing programming needs and developing tailored content strategies.Ability to oversee and coordinate content production across programming, news, and digital departments. Involvement in strategic goal setting as part of the station’s leadership team.Proven experience executing and delivering content-driven commercial campaigns and sales initiatives.Knowledge of BCCSA guidelines and experience handling complaints and compliance processes.Ability to align and integrate digital and traditional programming strategies effectively.Enforces high standards of on-air call screening, ensuring a controlled and professional broadcast environment.Ability to conceptualise and execute client campaigns within the station’s programming framework.Oversees the quality control of spots, promos, and promotional content.Provides leadership and oversight for simulcast shows across platforms.Suitable candidates will be selected in accordance with Primedia Broadcasting’s Employment Equity Policy. Correspondence will only be conducted with shortlisted candidates. Should you not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. Send your detailed CV to [[broadcastingcareers@primedia.co.za]] with the Subject Line “947 Assistant Programme Manager” The closing date for applications is 04 September 2026.