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Radio producer: Career development

Progression within this career is usually self-driven. Many producers work on a freelance basis and move from one employer to another. It is possible to gain freelance work on a long-term basis. As many vacancies are never advertised, making contacts within the industry is essential. Particularly at the start of your career, think of creative ways to make links with potential employers and to gain relevant experience.

Generally, career development is achieved by moving to a different programme or network. For example, a local radio producer with several years' experience may apply for a post on national radio. Career progression is gained through working for a more prestigious network, programme or presenter. As they gain more experience, producers also tend to focus on a specialist area of interest such as news, drama or documentaries. Various professional bodies hold annual awards for the radio industry, such as the Sony Radio Academy Awards . Gaining an industry-recognised accolade will inevitably help to progress the career of a talented producer.

Some presenters, particularly if they are high-profile, will choose their own production team to stay with them for the duration of the contract. On news and current affairs or magazine-type programmes, where there is likely to be a team of producers, progression may be to a role at senior producer level and then to programme editor. Some may progress from senior producer or editor to a managerial role such as network controller.

Ongoing continuing professional development (CPD) is important in an industry such as radio, where technology is constantly changing, and in the media generally, where multi-skilling is more prevalent. Producers may take courses in voice training, website editing, news writing, or media law, for example. Relevant professional bodies, such as the BBC (see BBC Training and Development ) and the RadioCentre  provide a range of development courses.

A small number of radio producers progress into teaching or lecturing in related subjects.

AGCAS

Written by Anna Lomas, University of Manchester

Last updated:

August 2009

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