Programming Manager

Chicago Sports Network • Chicago, IL

435d

About The Position

The Programming Manager at Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) is responsible for overseeing the programming department, which includes content acquisitions, development, scheduling, and content strategy. This role involves implementing the monthly program schedule, ensuring it meets targeted goals such as viewership and ad sales, and fostering communication with sports teams, distribution partners, and internal stakeholders to enhance relationships and programming effectiveness.

Requirements

• Minimum of five (5+) years' experience in sports television programming or production.
• Bachelor's Degree in related field of study preferred.
• Experience working in a highly collaborative team environment.
• Experience in customer service-oriented projects.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and manage a daily workload in a very detail-oriented environment.
• Equally analytical and creative.
• Comfortable working in a deadline-driven department.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, PPT, Word, Outlook).
• Proficiency with Wide Orbit and Gracenote or similar programming software.
• Highly responsible, self-motivated, and able to thrive in an energetic, fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Build, distribute, and maintain programming schedules for CHSN.
• Clearly communicate programming priorities, schedules, and changes to the organization, key stakeholders, and external partners.
• Track and maintain various Excel-based programming documents (e.g., library lists, competitive tracking, acquisitions lists, edit schedules, telecast reports).
• Monitor scheduling strategies and programming trends to maximize viewership and revenue.
• Work closely with Traffic and Production departments to create commercial formats.
• Prepare for and communicate program planning contingencies.
• Track external acquired content and syndication package(s) adds/deletes/updates.
• Negotiate with various programming providers for the best results for CHSN, including agents, promoters, producers, and showrunners.
• Serve as the troubleshooting point of contact for issues with content delivery including pitched content.
• Maintain programming documents to assist in the accurate reconciliation of commercial revenue for finance purposes every quarter.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to identify new programming opportunities while maintaining existing partnerships with leagues, promoters, and rights agencies.
• Build external relationships and identify content acquisitions that align with CHSN goals and vision and assist in launching new initiatives.
• Track competitive network acquisitions and develop recommendations based on research of competitive programming data.
• Assist with programming presentation documents (content one-sheets, PPT presentations).
• Handle special projects as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree