Director, MSNBC

Company Description

NBCUniversal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies. We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our theme parks and consumer experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, MSNBC, CNBC, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, USA Network, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and Universal Studio Group, and have world-renowned theme parks and attractions through Universal Destinations & Experiences. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation.

Our impact is rooted in improving the communities where our employees, customers, and audiences live and work. We have a rich tradition of giving back and ensuring our employees have the opportunity to serve their communities. We champion an inclusive culture and strive to attract and develop a talented workforce to create and deliver a wide range of content reflecting our world.

Comcast NBCUniversal has announced its intent to create a new publicly traded company ('Versant') comprised of most of NBCUniversal's cable television networks, including USA Network, CNBC, MSNBC, Oxygen, E!, SYFY and Golf Channel along with complementary digital assets Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, GolfPass, and SportsEngine. The well-capitalized company will have significant scale as a pure-play set of assets anchored by leading news, sports and entertainment content. The spin-off is expected to be completed during 2025.

Job Description

MSNBC is seeking an experienced Studio Director to join our New York City team, helping deliver world-class live programming across broadcast, social, and digital platforms. The ideal candidate is a quick, decisive leader with sharp editorial instincts who thrives in the high-pressure environment of live television. This individual will collaborate with producers, talent, and technical staff to translate editorial vision into compelling television.

A thorough knowledge of current events and a strong understanding of U.S. politics are essential. Familiarity with iNEWS, Vizrt, control room automation, and modern broadcast production tools is strongly preferred.

This is a DGA-covered position.

Responsibilities

• Direct high-energy live news programming with consistency, creativity, and accuracy
• Partner with producers and editorial teams to build and execute show rundowns, integrating video, graphics, studio elements, and music
• Lead technical crews including technical directors, audio, graphics, and camera operators to ensure seamless production
• Collaborate with graphic artists and technical staff to enhance the overall creative look of shows, including input on lighting, camera placement, and set design
• Operate, or be willing to learn and direct shows using, control room automation when assigned
• Participate in planning and executing field/remote productions, including technical planning and site surveys
• Maintain the highest standards of editorial integrity, technical execution, and aesthetic quality
• Review broadcasts and provide feedback to production teams for continuous improvement
• Serve as a team leader on special projects and breaking news events
• Stay current with evolving production technologies and emerging industry practices
• Adapt quickly to shifting priorities and thrive in high-pressure, deadline-driven situations

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience
• Minimum 5–7 years of experience directing live television, preferably in a major market newsroom
• Proven ability to manage live control room operations and execute complex rundowns
• Familiarity with iNEWS, Vizrt, graphics systems, and automation systems
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technology and workflows, with a proactive approach to broadcast innovations
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to give clear direction under pressure
• Deep knowledge of current events and U.S. political landscape
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task, prioritize, and lead in a fast-paced environment
• Experience with both studio and remote productions

Desired Characteristics

• Creative storyteller with excellent editorial judgment
• Collaborative team player who works well across disciplines
• Calm and decisive under pressure; dependable and self-starting
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and lead diverse teams

Additional Requirements

• This posit