How to Become a Program Director: Australian Careers in Business Management

1 Course

Displaying 1 of 1 courses

Filters

Clear all

Location

Industry

Study Mode

Payment Option

Qualification

Course Provider

BSB60720

Advanced Diploma of Program Management

The BSB60720 Advanced Diploma of Program Management offered by UNE Partnerships is designed for experienced program managers looking to elevate their careers. This comprehensive course equips participants with the advanced skills necessary to lead teams and manage a portfolio of multiple projects or large, complex initiatives within a business environment. Students will gain a deep understanding of program functions, governance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring they can effectively drive business outcomes and enhance organisational value.

Throughout the 18-month course, learners will engage in a blend of on-the-job learning, workplace practice, and self-directed study, with a focus on practical application of knowledge. The program includes Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessments, allowing for flexibility and tailored learning experiences. Graduates will emerge with the capability to integrate projects, manage risks, and provide leadership, positioning themselves for roles such as Portfolio Program Manager or Senior Program Manager. Enquire to learn more.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service program, it is not government-funded.

Online, Workplace

Online

Portfolio Manager, Program Director, Program Manager, Project Manager, Senior Project Manager

Price may vary

18 months

On this page

What is a Program Director?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Program Director?

The role of a Program Director is a dynamic and rewarding career path that involves overseeing the development and execution of television or radio programs. These professionals are at the heart of the creative process, ensuring that each program aligns with the network’s vision and audience expectations. They play a crucial role in shaping content, from concept to broadcast, making it an exciting position for those passionate about media and storytelling.

Program Directors are responsible for a variety of tasks that include studying scripts and scenarios to determine themes and settings, as well as overseeing the creative aspects of productions. They collaborate closely with writers, producers, and technical teams to ensure that every element of a program is executed flawlessly. This role requires a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of audience preferences, as Program Directors must curate content that resonates with viewers and listeners alike.

In addition to creative oversight, Program Directors are also tasked with planning and organising the preparation and presentation of programmes. This involves scheduling, budgeting, and coordinating with various departments to ensure that all aspects of production run smoothly. Their leadership skills are essential, as they guide teams through the production process, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and creativity.

Overall, a career as a Program Director offers the opportunity to be at the forefront of the media industry, influencing what audiences watch and listen to. With a blend of creativity, management, and strategic thinking, this role is perfect for individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments and are eager to make a significant impact in the world of entertainment.

Career snapshots For Program Directors

Program Directors in television or radio play a crucial role in shaping the content and direction of media productions. They are responsible for overseeing the creative aspects of programming, ensuring that the final product aligns with the intended vision and audience expectations.

Average Age: 38 years
Gender Distribution: 48% female
Hours Worked: Average of 42 hours per week, with 77% working full-time
Employment: Approximately 1,300 individuals are employed in this role
Projected Growth: Employment growth data is currently not available
Unemployment Rate: Specific unemployment rates for this role are not provided
Median Weekly Earnings: Data on median earnings is not available

Program Directors typically work in the Information Media and Telecommunications industry, with a significant concentration in New South Wales (44.4%) and Victoria (23.0%). This role requires a blend of creative vision and managerial skills, making it a dynamic and rewarding career path for those passionate about media production.

Source: ABS, 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

What will I do?

The role of a Program Director in the television or radio industry is pivotal in shaping the content and direction of programming. This professional is responsible for overseeing the creative aspects of productions, ensuring that the programming aligns with the network’s vision and audience expectations. With a blend of creativity and management skills, a Program Director plays a crucial role in planning, organising, and executing engaging content that resonates with viewers and listeners alike.

Script Analysis – Studies scripts and scenarios to determine the theme and setting of the programmes.
Creative Oversight – Oversees the creative aspects of television and radio productions, ensuring quality and coherence.
Programme Planning – Plans and organises the preparation and presentation of programmes, coordinating with various departments.
Team Collaboration – Works closely with producers, writers, and technical staff to develop and refine programme concepts.
Audience Research – Conducts audience research to understand viewer preferences and trends, adapting programming accordingly.
Budget Management – Manages budgets for productions, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively.
Scheduling – Develops and maintains production schedules, ensuring timely delivery of content.
Quality Control – Reviews final productions to ensure they meet the network’s standards and objectives.
Stakeholder Communication – Communicates with stakeholders, including network executives and advertisers, to align programming with business goals.
Problem Solving – Addresses any issues that arise during production, finding solutions to keep projects on track.

What skills do I need?

A successful career as a Program Director requires a diverse set of skills that blend creativity, leadership, and strategic thinking. Program Directors are responsible for overseeing the creative aspects of television and radio productions, which necessitates a strong understanding of storytelling, script analysis, and thematic development. They must be adept at planning and organising the preparation and presentation of programmes, ensuring that all elements align with the overall vision. This role also demands excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with writers, producers, and technical teams, as well as the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while adhering to deadlines.

In addition to creative prowess, a Program Director should possess strong leadership qualities to inspire and guide their team. This includes the ability to provide constructive feedback, foster a collaborative environment, and navigate challenges that may arise during production. A keen eye for detail and a solid understanding of audience engagement are also crucial, as Program Directors must ensure that their content resonates with viewers or listeners. Overall, a combination of artistic vision, organisational skills, and effective communication is essential for those aspiring to excel in this dynamic and rewarding field.

Skills/attributes

Strong leadership and management skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
Creative thinking and problem-solving skills
Project management expertise
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Knowledge of media production processes
Understanding of audience engagement and programming strategies
Budgeting and financial management skills
Collaboration and team-building capabilities
Adaptability to changing trends and technologies
Strategic planning and organisational skills
Attention to detail and quality control
Ability to analyse and interpret data for decision-making
Networking and relationship-building skills
Commitment to diversity and inclusion in programming

Resources

NATIONAL

QLD

VIC

ACT

TAS

CourseFinder makes every effort to ensure the information we provide is correct at the time of publication. We welcome your input to help keep our career profiles as accurate and up to date as possible. All queries and feedback will be taken into consideration as we conduct periodic reviews of our content. Add your voice to the conversation!

How to Become a Program Director: Australian Careers in Business Management

What is a Program Director?

Career snapshots For Program Directors

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Resources

Career Outcomes