About Baltimore Public Media
Baltimore Public Media (BPM) is the parent organization of WYPR 88.1 FM and WTMD 89.7 FM. We provide rich, vibrant programming in news, music, arts, and culture—across expanding radio and digital formats—that connects, enriches, and elevates the residents and communities of Baltimore and the region. Our mission is rooted in journalistic integrity, cultural merit, and community service.
Position Summary
Baltimore Public Media, which includes WTMD (Music Discovery) and WYPR (News & Public Affairs), is seeking a Program Director to manage both of its distinct public radio stations. This position serves the 23rd‑largest media market in the country and plays a critical role in connecting with the Baltimore community through compelling content and storytelling.
- WTMD : Reaches more than 90,000 people weekly with a mission centered around music discovery and arts engagement.
- WYPR : Serves more than 250,000 weekly listeners with a focus on independent journalism and public affairs.
The Program Director is responsible for shaping the stations’ (WTMD & WYPR) overall sound and tone that aligns with our editorial standards on both radio and digital platforms. The program director supervises content staff and leads audience‑focused programming. The right person for this role can serve as a visible ambassador of these two distinct stations and raise the profile of their offerings by building strong community connections and brand identity with Baltimore Public Media.
Key Responsibilities
Use audience‑centered thinking, research, and data to program and set the overall sound and tone of the station's.Manage the on‑air promos, airtime, and oversee the strategy around audience retention and acquisition with a focus on local content.Create and elevate partnerships, collaborate / lead on new and sustainable revenue sources.Supervise on‑air hosts, production, and content teams.Conduct airchecks and provide regular coaching and feedback to ensure format excellence.Direct the creation of engaging social / digital content, in coordination with our Director of Digital Media.Collaborate with internal teams to align programming with audience, revenue, and organizational goals.Work closely with audience development and fundraising teams to grow, engage, and diversify listenership and increase revenue.Work closely with the chief of content to stay abreast of news offerings, plan events, and create specials that align with programming.Participate in membership campaigns, station events, and live programming.Represent the station in industry circles, including conferences, events, and community engagements.Foster an inclusive and collaborative workplace by modeling inclusive leadership best practices.Maintain compliance with FCC and internal policies.Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Leadership & Management
Minimum of five years of leadership experience in music, news, or media organizations.Proven ability to lead and motivate diverse teams.Strong managerial, mentoring, coaching, and organizational skills.Ability to delegate effectively, set clear direction, and manage workflow.Broadcasting & Technical Proficiency
On‑air experience with strong interviewing skills.Technical proficiency in broadcasting and production tools.Familiarity with broadcast automation systems and audio editing software.WTMD : Experience with MusicMaster, Adobe Audition, analog / digital boards.WYPR : Experience with newsroom systems, audio editing tools, and broadcast automation.Comprehension of FCC compliance standards.Ability to quickly adapt to new systems and workflows.Content Development & Audience Engagement
Talent development and team coaching in on‑air and production roles.Ability to create engaging digital, on‑air, and social media content.Strategic decision‑making for programming and audience growth.Use of analytical data to increase listenership, ranking, and time spent listening.Community Engagement & DEI
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in words and deeds.Ability to function as an advocate for WTMD & WYPR’s content and staff.A dedication to fostering community engagement.Communication & People Skills
Excellent written and oral communication skills.Strong negotiation and persuasion abilities.Ability to influence and inspire others.Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g., journalism, music, media).At least 10 years of experience in audio journalism, public radio, or podcast production.Knowledge of an interest in the Baltimore region, its people, culture, issues, and geography.Passion for and experience with public broadcasting.Audio editing proficiency (Adobe Audition).Demonstrated ability to elevate diverse voices and topics with nuance and sensitivity.Familiarity with Greater Baltimore’s successes, challenges and the diversity within communities is highly preferred.Equal Opportunity & Organizational Commitment
Baltimore Public Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a team that represents diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We actively encourage applicants from historically underrepresented groups—including but not limited to Black, Indigenous, and people of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities—to apply.
As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) public media organization, Baltimore Public Media operates WYPR 88.1 FM and WTMD 89.7 FM, serving the Baltimore region and Maryland with trusted journalism, engaging music, and cultural programming. We are dedicated to enriching our community through independent media and public service.
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