Your Role The Associate Director is a critical member of the production team, serving as the operational and creative bridge between Production, Technical Operations, Design, Editorial, and live event execution. This role supports both studio and remote broadcasts across TNT Sports' premier properties and plays an integral part in the planning, preparation, and execution of all live events.
The ideal candidate is equally comfortable in a control room or on remote in broadcast trucks, thrives in fast-paced environments, and has a passion for producing high-quality live sports. Success in this role requires exceptional communication, organization, creative problem-solving, leadership skills, and the ability to anticipate production needs before they arise.
Role & ResponsibilitiesProduction Planning & Creative Collaboration- This role will consist of being an Associate Director for both studio and remote productions, managing the pace, element list, and master control execution of live broadcasts. Maintain clear communication between production, engineering, master control, transmission, and venue operations during live broadcasts.
- Partner with producers, directors, and production management during pre-production to help develop show concepts, storytelling opportunities, and creative execution plans. Contribute ideas that enhance the viewer experience while supporting the editorial vision of each broadcast, including assisting in producing editorial content and specialty elements.
- Write and edit promotional copy and coordinate promotional elements throughout studio and remote productions sales and marketing teams.
- Collaborate with design, graphics operators and specialty graphic teams to develop and implement visual elements that support the editorial vision of each show.
- Coordinate graphic requests and ensure all supporting assets; including video, audio, music, and animation; are available and production ready.
- Verify graphic accuracy, timing, and functionality before air.
- Work closely with marketing, sales, and social media teams to integrate sponsored elements and cross-platform content into broadcasts.
- Foster collaborative relationships across departments to ensure productions are executed efficiently and consistently.
- Time taped elements, commercial breaks, and live segments while maintaining overall show timing. Count producers and directors in and out of video elements, graphics, and live transitions.
- Identify and communicate opportunities for pre-game, in game and post-game highlights, features, and storytelling elements.
- Partner with EVS Operators, Editors, and Producers to prioritize, build, and deliver content prior to and throughout live broadcasts.
- Prepare control rooms and remote production trucks with all show specific elements to ensure productions are fully operational before rehearsals begin.
- Coordinate with engineering, technical operations, and transmission teams to support live broadcast workflows.
- Assist with remote melts, transmission coordination, and integration of specialty production technologies.
- Support troubleshooting efforts during live broadcasts while maintaining focus on the production.
Qualifications & Experience- Minimum of three years of experience as an Associate Director in live sports television, including studio and/or remote productions.
- Demonstrated experience supporting complex live broadcasts in fast-paced environments.
- Passion for live sports and an understanding of the editorial and production demands of properties such as the NHL, MLB, NCAA football and basketball, Soccer, Tennis, Boxing, NASCAR, Unrivaled, and emerging properties.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and multitasking skills.
- Strong leadership presence with the ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure.
- Ability to anticipate production needs, solve problems proactively, and adapt quickly to changing priorities.
- Strong understanding of live production workflows, EVS operations, replay systems, and timing.
- Working knowledge of newsroom and production software including iNews, Slack, Splashtop, editorial and statistical platforms.
- Appreciation for music, pacing, and production value to help elevate the overall broadcast.
- Willingness to travel and work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended production schedules as required.
What Makes Someone SuccessfulThe most successful Associate Directors are trusted partners to producers and directors. They think beyond their immediate responsibilities, anticipate challenges before they occur, communicate effectively across every department, and take ownership of the broadcast from planning through sign-off. They are collaborative leaders who continually look for ways to improve the production while creating an environment where the entire team can succeed.
