Director of Operations - WGN-TV Chicago

This is an opportunity to become an integral part of a nationally recognized television station, WGN9 Chicago. The successful candidate will oversee WGN's daily Technical Production operation. Candidates should possess the ability to communicate effectively and perform at a high level in a fast-paced environment with great attention to detail. The Director of Operations will oversee all Technical Production staff, including Technical Directors, Camera Operations, Audio A1/A2, jib, Band mixer, Show Editing. Build process, train and supervise production control staff for efficiency and high-quality execution of live news production as well as lifestyle shows and special events like the 2023 DNC, the Chicago auto show and other major events. Additional Responsibilities: Work with Engineering to determine needed upgrades in news production and help to define software product functions and schedule installation of updates. Hire and manage staff, make decisions and write annual performance reviews. Implement operational training on equipment and processes for control rooms and IBEW production staff. Plan the operational production execution of larger events like elections, auto show, block parties, mayoral debates, and GN sport events. Work with IT, Engineering, Maintenance and News ops on the automation required to operate the production control room. Troubleshoot production problems to the level that will allow correction and updated fixes to be implemented in the workflow. Manage and coordinate with Scheduling to ensure proper staffing is in place for daily operations. Design and distribute standard operating processes for Production. Participate with equipment selections and implementation coordination. Part of the team to review departmental budgets and long-term planning. Affiliate liaison for GN sports and Chicago Football weekly. Manage Air prep operations and coordinate with Master Control Operations daily. Desired Qualifications: Five plus years of management experience in a television production environment. Familiar with production quality standards and the overall strategy of all the elements needed for a high-quality news or show production. Knowledge of how the production environment fits with the other areas of a TV station, like News, as well as distribution and master control. Ability to understand how software user interfaces enable production. Experience with air prep and screening material for use over time. Occasionally work at times when the normal workday is over and management coordination and support is needed during evening hours. Familiarity with Ross Overdrive and Ross Xpression systems is a plus. Excellent ability to communicate, with an iterative management style, proactively seeking solutions to ensure smooth execution. Excellent written and verbal skills, ability to create and use Excel spreadsheets. Union management and contract policy execution experience is a plus. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2024-11-05