Program Director

Leighton Media in St. Cloud is seeking a Program Director.

Position Summary 

Leighton Media is seeking a reliable, energetic and creative Program Director to lead Wild Country 99 in St. Cloud, Minnesota. This role combines station programming, a compelling weekday on-air presence, music scheduling, digital and social engagement, production, promotions and day-to-day problem-solving. The Program Director will help protect and grow the Wild Country 99 brand while supporting the broader market team. 

Essential Responsibilities 

  • Prepare for and host a live, engaging on-air show Monday through Friday, including severe weather coverage as needed. 
  • Provide day-to-day programming leadership for Wild Country 99 and maintain a consistent station sound and brand. 
  • Work with MusicMaster on a daily basis to schedule music. 
  • In addition to normal PD duties, syndication responsibilities for The Kelly Jordan Show on owned and operated affiliates. 
  • Update station social media and digital platforms with contests, promotions, programming content and community information while following established brand standards. 
  • Complete production and voice-tracking responsibilities, including at least one hour of production and voice tracking each week. 
  • Coordinate station imaging, promotions, contests and on-air execution using established processes and software. 
  • Host remote broadcasts, station appearances and community events as required. 
  • Troubleshoot and help resolve transmitter, studio and other technical issues, escalating when appropriate. 
  • Attend weekly team meetings, provide programming updates and collaborate with sales, promotions, digital and operations staff. 
  • Meet applicable BMI reporting requirements on a quarterly basis. 
  • Cover weekend or additional on-air shifts when needed. 
  • Perform other duties that support the station and the Leighton Media team. 

Qualifications 

  • 3 – 5 years of Previous radio programming and on-air experience; country-format experience is a must.
  • Passion, energy and enthusiasm for local radio, the Wild Country 99 brand and Leighton Media. 
  • Strong communication, organization, decision-making and time-management skills. 
  • Ability to coach, collaborate and work effectively across programming, sales, promotions, digital and operations. 
  • Experience with music scheduling and broadcast automation systems; MusicMaster experience is preferred. 
  • Experience using Adobe Audition and Microsoft 365 is preferred. 
  • Social media and digital content skills, with an understanding of how to extend on-air programming across platforms. 
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings, weekends, remote broadcasts and severe weather coverage. 

Compensation and Benefits 

The salary range for this position is $60,000-$80,000 annually, depending on experience. Leighton Media offers a 401(k) plan, employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), health, disability and life insurance, comprehensive training programs and vacation time. 

About Leighton Media 

Leighton Media is committed to serving local communities through our people, time, talent and resources. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

For more details and to apply, click here.