Music Programming Strategist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are a global community that is driven by the creative spirit of Los Angeles. Through an inspiring mix of music, news, and culture, we bring joy and connection online, in person, and on the radio. Always excellent, accessible, and often unexpected, we are a constant source of fuel for the imagination, education, and good vibes. At least, that is what our members tell us.

As NPR’s flagship member station in Southern California for more than 30 years and a community service of Santa Monica College, KCRW is the next generation of public media.

The Director, Music Strategy & Operations reports to the Music Director (VP of Music) and serves as the primary operational leader for KCRW’s Music Department. This role is responsible for translating strategic vision into actionable execution across radio, digital, and live platforms, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and excellence across all music programming.

This position oversees day-to-day operations, production workflows, and cross-functional coordination, enabling the successful delivery of music content and experiences that build audience and community. Responsibilities include managing departmental operations, supervising staff and scheduling, overseeing digital and editorial execution, supporting artist relationships, and collaborating across departments to deliver high-quality programming aligned with KCRW’s mission.

• Lead day-to-day operations and workflows of the Music Department

• Translate strategic priorities into actionable plans and ensure execution across all platforms

• Oversee operational performance of music programming across audio, video, digital, and live experiences

• Ensure consistent standards and quality across all content outputs

• Coordinate production schedules, release timelines, and publishing workflows with editorial and creative teams

• Oversee planning and execution of live sessions and music events, including artist outreach and booking coordination

• Maintain and develop relationships with artists, labels, managers, promoters, and venues

• Supervise operational execution of editorial and digital music content

• Collaborate with Events, Marketing, Membership, and Digital teams to support audience engagement and growth

• Manage DJ scheduling, guest hosts, and programming coverage

• Serve as administrative lead for departmental operations, including scheduling, contracts, and cross-department communication

• Oversee budgets, timelines, and resource allocation for music initiatives

• Supervise and mentor staff, including performance management and professional development

• Experience managing music programming, editorial production, and/or live events

• Strong operational and project management skills with the ability to execute complex initiatives

• Deep knowledge of the contemporary music landscape and artist ecosystem

• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and projects in a fast-paced, creative environment

• Experience overseeing budgets, staffing, and resource planning

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with artists, industry partners, and internal teams

• Proven ability to translate strategy into execution and measurable outcomes

• Existing relationships within the music industry, including artists, labels, promoters, and venues

• Experience working in media, marketing, or cultural organizations

• Familiarity with public media or mission-driven organizations

• Salary: $125,000 – $135,000

• Hybrid work schedule for select positions

• Eligible for overtime and premium working holiday pay rate

• Sick leave award

• Vacation leave accrual

• Paid holidays

• Health insurance (including medical, dental, vision, FSA, life and AD&D) eligibility

• 403(b) with company match

• Passionate office environment surrounded by an incredible community of curious and talented colleagues

• KCRW is a qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program - read more here to determine your eligibility

KCRW aims to be representative of Southern California, and candidates with traditionally underrepresented backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply. KCRW is an equal opportunity employer and actively recruits to promote diversity in our workforce. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, status as a parent, national origin, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.