Radio Programme Controller - Job Profile

About the role

Programme Controllers or Programme Directors are responsible for leading programme teams on Commercial Radio stations – to ensure that they produce programming which meets the creative and commercial needs of each station. Programme Controllers work closely with Station Managers or equivalent personnel. This particular job role is only found in Commercial Radio.

In the BBC, the closest equivalent may be an Assistant Editor in Local Radio. The BBC also uses the title Controller for the head of each of its National Radio networks, but that is not the job being referred to in this profile. See also the Radio Station Manager job profile.

The specific responsibilities of Radio Programme Controllers working in Commercial Radio vary between different organisations and stations, depending on the size of the organisation to which a station belongs, and the division of responsibilities within station management teams. Programme Controllers are based throughout the UK.

What does the job do?

Programme Controllers must have a clear understanding of the purpose and format of their station, the characteristics of their target audience and the key business objectives of the station. Their role is to plan programming to meet these objectives, and to oversee the work of programming teams. Programme Controllers work closely with Station Managers, or other relevant personnel, who have overall responsibility for the station, but whose key focus is on sales and maximising revenue.

Programme Controllers are involved in the recruitment, training and development, and day-to-day management of all staff in the programming departments of Radio stations - encouraging creativity and commercial awareness in their team. They are also expected to coach programme presenters, and regularly review their performance.

Programme Controllers need to work collaboratively with all the different disciplines within the station, and contribute to the development of multi-platform content. They must continually review and refresh programme output, and devise new programming to attract and retain audiences, and to contribute to the success of the station.

Along with Station Managers, they represent the station externally at a local level, building relationships within the community they serve. They are required to ensure that programming complies with the laws, regulations and industry codes governing Radio broadcasting, and to see that programme complaints are dealt with swiftly.

The job is demanding and can involve working long and unpredictable hours. It may also involve some travelling – particularly for those Programme Controllers who are part of larger and geographically diverse organisations.

Typical career routes

Programme Controllers in Commercial Radio have gained substantial experience in Programming over a number of years – probably with several different stations and organisations. They are also expected to have a thorough understanding of the commercial side of the business.

Once in post, career progression for Programme Controllers may involve moving to a larger local station, to a regional role with one of the larger radio broadcasters, or to a management role with a national service. Some Programme Controllers may also move into TV.

Essential knowledge and skills

Radio Programme Controllers need the following:
ability to generate original ideas, and to think creatively about how to communicate them
excellent communication and presentation skills
knowledge of the Radio market, different station and programme styles, and audience demographics
sound editorial judgement
business and finance skills
confidence and decisiveness
the capacity to work effectively under pressure, react quickly, and meet tight deadlines
determination, diplomacy, and excellent interpersonal skills
a facility for managing creative teams, and encouraging acceptable creative risk taking
ability to coach, and to develop talent in others
ability to give and accept feedback, and manage performance
ability to deal effectively with team members of differing temperaments and morale
ability to encourage frank and constructive reviews of output
self-motivation and adaptability
a thorough knowledge of the law, ethics and industry regulation as they affect Radio production
knowledge of when it is necessary, and how to acquire, the relevant clearances and licenses, including copyright and music clearances
knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures
a high level of IT skills – particularly good word-processing and data handling skills

Training & qualifications

Most Programme Controllers acquire some of their management skills on-the-job in previous roles, managing smaller programme teams, overseeing projects, or standing in for senior colleagues. Some may have been recognised as having management potential in previous roles, and offered the opportunity of some management training by their employer – or been supported to undertake a relevant qualification.

In other cases individuals may have pursued professional development independently – self-funding relevant short-courses or management qualifications – to improve their chances of promotion. However, such qualifications are not essential for the role.

Once in post, Radio Programme Controllers are expected to continue developing their skills on the job. Most employers also offer a variety of forms of training to keep their Programme Controllers’ skills and knowledge up-to-date. This training may be offered in-house, or supplied by external providers depending on the size and structure of different Radio organisations and employers.

Colleges and private training providers offer a range of short courses which could be of benefit to Programme Controllers seeking professional development, and may offer opportunities for them to gain further promotion, or to change career direction.

What can I expect to get paid?

Salaries may range depending on which radio group you are working for, expect to earn anywhere from £24,000 to £80,000 a year.