The Programming & Operations Manager is responsible for leading the strategic direction, daily execution, and long-term evolution of Hutton Broadcasting’s nine-station radio cluster in the Four Corners region. This leadership role ensures that all stations operate in full FCC compliance, deliver exceptional on‑air content, maintain technical reliability, and consistently elevate their competitive position in the market. The Programming & Operations Manager works closely with the General Manager and collaborates strategically with Hutton Broadcasting’s other divisions—including digital, video, publishing, engineering, and social media—to maximize audience engagement, operational efficiency, and revenue growth.

This role requires a forward‑thinking leader with a passion for great radio, a mastery of modern programming principles, strong operational instincts, and an enthusiasm for integrating new technologies, including AI‑powered tools, into workflows.

To apply, send your resume and cover letter to alba@santafe.com.

Job Title: Programming & Operations Manager
Department: Broadcasting
FLSA Status: Exempt
Prepared by: Human Resources
Prepared Date: January 2026

Primary Responsibilities

Programming Leadership

• Direct, guide, and evolve the programming strategy for all nine Four Corners stations.
• Maintain consistent brand identity, tone, and on‑air standards across all stations.
• Develop and oversee talent coaching programs, including aircheck sessions, performance reviews, and growth planning.
• Curate station music logs, playlists, clocks, and overall sound, ensuring alignment with audience expectations.
• Coordinate and approve imaging, promos, sweepers, and station voiceovers.
• Build and execute content calendars for on‑air features, community segments, specialty programming, and seasonal initiatives.
• Partner with the Promotions and Digital teams to integrate on‑air campaigns with online, social, and event strategies.

Technical & Operational Oversight

• Ensure the reliable technical operation of studios, automation systems, logs, and broadcast equipment.
• Collaborate with Engineering on system maintenance, upgrades, remote broadcasts, STL/streaming quality, and emergency broadcast readiness.
• Oversee the daily creation and reconciliation of program logs to ensure accuracy and operational flow.
• Maintain redundancy systems and operational protocols for outages, weather events, and emergencies.
• Lead innovation in workflow modernization using AI, automation, and advanced radio management tools.

FCC Compliance & Regulatory Management

• Serve as the primary compliance lead for all stations, ensuring adherence to FCC rules.
• Maintain the Public Inspection Files and EEO reports in partnership with HR and the Business Office.
• Oversee the accurate airing of required legal IDs, EAS tests, political advertising compliance, and contest rule documentation.
• Train staff on regulatory expectations and implement compliance‑focused procedures.

Financial Management & Cost Controls

Identify new revenue opportunities related to programming features, sponsorships, podcasts, and branded content.

Work with the General Manager to develop and manage annual programming and operations budgets.

Negotiate vendor contracts for ratings, software, music services, and external talent.

Manage expenses related to music licensing, production, and content acquisition.

Seek cost‑efficient solutions that enhance quality while protecting profitability.

Cross‑Department Collaboration

Digital & Social Media Team

• Coordinate with Hutton Digital and the Social Media Department to strengthen the cluster’s online and social presence.
• Ensure station talent contributes to digital video, podcasts, social posts, and cross‑platform content.
• Integrate AI‑powered analytics to improve content strategy, audience insights, and engagement.

Video Production (Hutton Films)

• Align on‑air promotions with video storytelling opportunities.
• Support the creation of visual assets featuring station personalities.

Hutton Digital Displays & City Websites

• Build synergy across platforms—radio, indoor displays, and city websites—to promote community events, advertisers, and cluster‑wide initiatives.
• Feature on‑air content that supports major multimedia campaigns.

Engineering & IT

• Support the deployment of next‑generation broadcast technology.
• Work with IT to implement AI automation tools, modern content management, and advanced scheduling systems.

Talent Management & Culture Building

• Recruit, onboard, and mentor on‑air hosts, producers, and part‑time staff.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and accountability to ensure top‑tier on‑air performance.
• Uphold Hutton Broadcasting’s mission, values, and standards of excellence.
• Foster a culture of innovation, creativity, and professional growth.

Future‑Focused Innovation & AI Integration

• Identify and adopt AI tools to enhance music scheduling, log management, promo writing, content editing, and operational efficiencies.
• Lead continuous improvement in programming, production, and workflow modernization.
• Anticipate trends in radio, audio consumption, podcasting, smart speakers, and emerging platforms.
• Position the cluster as a leader in technological evolution across the Four Corners region.

Community & Brand Engagement

• Represent the stations at community events, station remotes, and industry functions.
• Build partnerships with local organizations, event promoters, schools, and civic groups.
• Ensure stations reflect and elevate the culture, identity, and needs of the Four Corners communities.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 5–7 years in radio programming, operations, or similar leadership role.
• Demonstrated success managing multiple formats and on‑air teams.
• Strong understanding of FCC compliance, radio automation, and modern broadcast systems.
• Experience coaching talent and elevating station sound.
• Familiarity with AI tools, music scheduling software, and cloud‑based systems.
• Strong communication, organization, and leadership capabilities.
• Visionary mindset with a passion for the future of audio.

Performance Metrics

Success in this role will be measured by:

• Audience growth and ratings performance.
• Quality and consistency of station sound.
• Reduction in operational errors and downtime.
• Effective budget management and cost savings.
• Strength of talent development and staff culture.
• Successful FCC compliance track record.
• Innovation in content and workflow modernization.

Compensation & Structure

• Full‑time, exempt leadership role.
• Reports directly to the General Manager for the Four Corners.
• Works closely with the President/CEO and cross‑departmental leadership.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and performance‑based incentives.