News Media Director Job at University of Oklahoma in Norman

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Overview

Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication – BEA’s #1 Media Program in the nation – is seeking a dedicated and dynamic News Director. This essential role is responsible for overseeing the development, production, and management of a student-led live newscast and related multimedia programming. The position involves supervising and mentoring students in editorial and production roles, managing daily news coverage, coordinating special event reporting, and maintaining the visual and editorial standards of the broadcasts. If you are passionate about news production within an academic setting, this is an exciting opportunity.

Responsibilities

• Oversee students & staff involved in the daily 30-minute live newscast, including its social media accounts, website, marquee, and streaming platforms.
• Create, supervise, and manage additional programming to accommodate increasing student interest and involvement.
• Support students and staff in both on- and off-camera roles, offering direction on editorial decisions and, when needed, assisting with newscast production.
• Manage the production of daily news stories and the overall structure and quality of the newscast.
• Manage the recruitment, hiring, training, and supervision of assigned staff and student editorial employees; coordinate with the production director and their team.
• Organize schedules for student reporters, anchors, meteorologists, producers, and other contributors.
• Oversee the budget for the assigned area.
• Direct student coverage of major events such as elections, high-profile sporting events, and other significant news stories.
• Assist students with internship placement and job opportunities in media and journalism.
• Maintain communication with university departments, external vendors, media partners, newsroom managers, and talent recruiters.
• Oversee the graphic design and visual presentation for the newscast and sports programming.
• May teach journalism courses and supervise associated labs and practicums.
• Establish and maintain journalistic ethics and standards to ensure accurate, fair, and responsible reporting.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to students and staff to foster professional growth.
• Coordinate with technical teams to ensure all broadcast and production equipment are functioning properly and up to date.
• Represent the department and participants on university committees or councils related to media, communications, or student affairs.
• Stay current with industry trends and technologies.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communication, Media Studies, or a closely related field.
• Experience: 5 years of professional experience in broadcast journalism, multimedia production, or a related media field.
• Equivalency/Substitution: Experience or a combination of education & related experience can be considered in lieu of degree. A one-to-one ratio is used to determine the number of years of experience required in place of a degree.
• Skills:
  • Advanced knowledge of broadcasting skills, techniques, procedures, and goals.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with stakeholders, including staff, management, donors, students, and the public.
  • Ability to speak in public.
  • Strong time management, detail, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Ability to think critically and synthesize complex data.
  • Familiarity with digital media platforms, social media management, and current industry trends.
  • Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to mentor and develop students and staff.
  • Proficient in using video editing software, newsroom systems, and content management tools.
  • Ability to coordinate multiple projects, manage schedules, and meet tight deadlines.
  • Ability to adapt to evolving technologies and integrate new media tools.
  • Ability to maintain professionalism and ethical standards under pressure.

Certifications

None.

Advertised Physical Requirements

• Ability to engage in repetitive motions and communicate effectively.
• Requires frequent use of computers, video, and audio production equipment.
• May involve irregular hours, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends, especially during live broadcasts or special event coverage.
• Occasional travel may be required for event coverage or professional development.
• Collaborative environment involving interaction with students, faculty, university staff, and external partners.
• Fast-paced setting with multiple deadlines and simultaneous projects.

Supervision

Staff and student employees

Special Instructions

If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy. To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (as permitted by law), age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or veteran status in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.

Job Posting

Oct 7, 2025

Oklahoma City, OK