Associate Programming Manager

This is a Full Time Job

Job Summary:

The Associate Manager Programming supports the planning, execution, and maintenance of network programming schedules across ESPN platforms. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate schedule implementation, coordinating network-level graphics elements, managing programming adjustments, and supporting long-term strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate combines strong organizational skills, operational excellence, ability to communicate with executive level leadership, and a passion for sports and television programming.

Responsibilities:

Programming & Scheduling Operations
• Learn and apply network scheduling guidelines, operating procedures, and conditions philosophies.
• Populate join-in-progress (JIP) points and other critical on-air network information within scheduling systems such as NCS and Content Scheduler.
• Monitor scheduled programming and support the execution of schedule changes as needed.
• Prepare and distribute reports documenting programming and content decisions for department-wide communication.

Content Coordination
• Collaborate with the Content Strategy team to develop alternate programming solutions when schedule disruptions occur, including events that conclude earlier than expected.
• Provide operational support to ensure programming continuity across networks and platforms.

Network Graphics & Presentation
• Manage planning and execution of network-level graphics initiatives, including:
• Navigation pane coordination
• Bottom-line takeovers
• Other network presentation elements that support viewer navigation and engagement

Strategic Projects & Stakeholder Support
• Assist with long-term programming strategy and operational improvement projects.
• Attend sport-specific, project, and operational meetings as assigned, providing scheduling and conditions-related input and follow-up.
• Perform shift-specific responsibilities and other duties as assigned by management.

Required Qualifications
• Minimum 2 years of experience working in television production.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of television operations and scheduling processes.
• Ability to analyze information, solve problems, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Creative thinker with strong analytical skills and the ability to develop innovative solutions.
• Passion for sports and broad knowledge of sports rules and events.

Preferred Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Broadcasting, Media Studies, or a related field.
• Minimum 4 years of experience in television programming, production, operations, affiliate relations, media scheduling, or a related area.
• In-depth knowledge of schedule change procedures and broadcast operations.
• Experience working with scheduling systems such as NCS, Content Scheduler, or similar broadcast planning tools.
• Highly organized and detail oriented.
• Thrives in a deadline-driven, live-event environment.
• Strong collaborator who can effectively work across content, programming, and operations teams.
• Demonstrates sound judgment and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Passionate about delivering a seamless viewer experience through accurate and efficient programming execution.

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