Assistant Manager

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Playout Assistant Manager is responsible for overseeing the Master Control Room (MCR) operations, ensuring the smooth and efficient playout of live and pre-recorded content. This role involves managing the playout team, coordinating the technical and operational aspects of broadcast playout, and ensuring compliance with broadcasting standards. The MCR Playout Assistant Manager will also handle complex troubleshooting, optimize playout workflows, and ensure seamless transmission of content across all channels. Playout Assistant Manager will be responsible for ensuring live switching of sports events and follow up for the contingencies. Taking up upskilling of the team and team management.

Key Responsibilities:

1. MCR Operations Management:

- Supervise the daily operations of the Master Control Room, ensuring accurate and timely playout of content.
- Coordinate with technical teams to maintain and optimize playout systems, including automation and server-based technologies.
- Oversee the execution of live broadcasts, including switching between sources, inserting commercials, and managing live feeds.
- Coordinate with Broadcasters/ Production houses for the content and Live production.
- Ensure live bridge/calls for pre/post live shows with production/broadcast customers.
- Ensure to provide As-runs on daily basis to the customers as per their requirement.

- Team Leadership:

- Lead and manage the MCR team, including scheduling shifts, providing training, and ensuring adherence to best practices.
- Conduct performance evaluations, offer constructive feedback, and support professional development for team members.
- Foster a collaborative environment and ensure effective communication within the team and with other departments.

- Technical Oversight:

- Knowledge of Broadcast technology including Playout, IP Networking, Contribution and Video/Audio Encoding.
- Monitor the performance of MCR equipment, performing routine checks and addressing any technical issues that arise.
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical problems, coordinating with engineering and support teams as necessary.
- Implement and enforce maintenance schedules and procedures to ensure the reliability of broadcast systems.

- Workflow Optimization:

- Develop and implement procedures and protocols to enhance the efficiency and reliability of MCR operations.
- Review and refine operational workflows, incorporating automation and other technologies to streamline processes.
- Ensure that all content meets broadcast quality standards and complies with regulatory requirements.

- Emergency Response and Contingency Planning:

- Act as the primary point of contact for resolving MCR-related emergencies and technical failures.
- Develop and maintain contingency plans to address potential broadcast disruptions or system failures.

- Compliance and Quality Assurance:

- Ensure that all broadcasts adhere to legal, regulatory, and company standards for content delivery.
- Conduct regular quality checks and audits to maintain broadcast integrity and address any discrepancies.

- Reporting and Documentation:

- Promptly report any deviations in playout operations to the management and the customer with transparency.
- Maintain accurate records of MCR activities, including incident reports, equipment performance, and operational metrics.
- Prepare and present reports on operational performance, issues, and improvements to senior management.

- Collaboration and Coordination:

- Work closely with other departments, including Programming, Production, and Engineering, to ensure smooth operations and timely content delivery.
- Coordinate with external vendors and partners as needed to support MCR operations and resolve technical issues.

Qualifications:

- Education:B.E/B-Tech Engineering / Science Graduate, Technical Graduate (Electronics and IT preferred)

- Experience:

-Minimum of 5-15 years of experience in broadcast operations, including at least 2-3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.

-Additionally experience with cloud computing platforms such as AWS or similar.

-Experience using monitoring tools such as Dataminer, Grafana or similar.

- Technical Skills: Expertise in MCR and playout systems, including automation software, video/audio codecs, and signal flow. Proficiency in troubleshooting complex technical issues.
- Leadership: Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience in training and mentoring staff.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with team members, other departments, and external partners.
- Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to handle high-pressure situations, troubleshoot technical issues, and implement effective solutions.

Preferred Qualifications:

- Advanced certifications in broadcast technology or management.
- Experience with cutting-edge playout technologies and systems integration.
- Knowledge of emerging trends and technologies in broadcasting.

Working Conditions:

- The role may require working irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- The position is typically office-based with on-site responsibilities for overseeing MCR operations and equipment maintenance.

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