Company Description

VERSANT is a leading force in news, sports and entertainment - home to iconic and trusted brands that inspire, inform, and delight audiences. Our unique combination of content, technology and services enriches the cultural fabric, igniting passions, sparking conversations, and connecting people to what they love most.

As an independent, publicly traded company, VERSANT brings together powerhouse cable networks - including USA Network, CNBC, MS NOW (formerly MSNBC), Oxygen, E!, SYFY, and Golf Channel - with dynamic digital and direct-to-consumer brands such as Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, GolfPass, and SportsEngine. Together, these businesses reflect our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences across every screen and service.

VERSANT is an industry-changing media company fueled by innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit. With a strong foundation and a forward-looking vision, VERSANT empowers creativity, embraces change, and drives connection in an ever-evolving world.

Job Description

MS NOW 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 position is required to be performed in-person at the Versant office in New York City Must be able to work evenings, early mornings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as assigned Must be willing to travel if needed Must provide a resume and director track reel (upon request) This position is eligible for company sponsored benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k), paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and a variety of other discounts and perks. Salary Range: $140,000 - $260,000

Additional Information

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with a VERSANT employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. VERSANT's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation. You can submit your request to candidateaccessibility@versantmedia.com.

VERSANT is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. We include a good faith pay range for each position to comply with applicable state and local pay transparency laws and to promote equity across our organization. Actual compensation will be based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, experience, and location and may include additional forms of compensation and benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, etc.

Director, MS NOW

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