Radio studio manager: Job description and activities

Radio studio managers are responsible for maintaining the technical standard of broadcasts by controlling sound in studios and on location. They must combine technical, creative and interpersonal skills, balancing and interpreting the requirements of producers, technicians, presenters and artists.

The studio manager’s primary role is to follow or interpret the instructions of the producer. Traditionally, studio managers have been at the forefront of the editing process. Advances in digital editing have meant that much of this work is now performed by producers themselves. However, studio managers often remain central to the editing process in more extensive or complicated productions.

At the BBC, radio studio managers oversee the running of the studios, handle all live output, and are also involved in the final stages of mixing the overall sound of pre-recorded programmes.

Typical work activities include:

enabling the successful transmission of a wide range of radio programmes by interpreting and advising on the requirements of the producers and contributors;
applying technical skills and knowledge to operate and supervise the use of recording and production equipment and resources;
managing IT systems;
setting up studios and outside broadcasts;
recording, editing and mixing sound using manual, digital and computerised techniques.

The majority of radio work is live, so you must be able to react and think quickly. Anyone interested in a career as a studio manager should be prepared for long and unusual working hours. Moreover, radio managers often have to work in highly stressful situations and to tight deadlines. Stamina, self-motivation and patience are essential attributes for this job.

For more information see Sound technician, broadcasting/film/video.

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