Job of the Week: BBC seeks new Proms planner

Sam Jackson, controller of Radio 3, has advertised for a semi-replacement for the departing Proms chief David Pickard.

He asks: ‘How would you like to be Director of Artistic Planning for the world’s greatest classical music festival?’

That qualifies, at least, as our Job of the Week. Here are the specs:

Working to the Controller, BBC Radio 3 & BBC Proms, the holder of this new post will take responsibility for the day-to-day artistic planning of the world’s largest classical music festival.

This role will focus on implementing the creative vision as set by the Controller, as we look to further grow the impact of the Proms: in-person at the Royal Albert Hall and in other venues across the UK; on BBC TV and iPlayer; and on BBC Radio 3 and BBC Sounds.

Selected day-to-day responsibilities will include:

– Working closely with the Controller, BBC Radio 3 & BBC Proms, you’ll deliver consistently compelling Proms seasons, offering bold and distinctive programming that demonstrably delights audiences
– Act as the day-to-day point of contact for key industry stakeholders – including artists and management
Collaborate with the wider Proms team to ensure that the festival’s artistic vision is achieved within budget and in a cost-effective manner, placing the BBC’s Value for All strategy at the heart of all decision making
– Deliver concerts that have an impact for audiences well beyond the venue alone, placing a particular focus on the relationship between the BBC Proms and BBC TV/iPlayer, as well as BBC Radio 3/BBC Sounds
– Comply with all relevant BBC Safety Rules, procedures and guidelines, and be fully aware of the health and safety responsibilities of this job role as stated in BBC Radio’s Health and Safety Policy

The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:

– A deep knowledge of the classical (traditional and contemporary) music scene
– As an expert in your field, you’ll act as a role model to colleagues and will be respected by the wider industry
– Your experience in classical and orchestral music make you someone who is recognised for your creative thinking and commitment to innovation
– You will be someone who relishes the opportunity to deal with the detail: whether that be in relation to opportunities with new audiences, last-minute schedule changes, or any other element of artistic delivery that ensures a brilliant BBC Proms season
– Adept at managing numerous senior stakeholders – both internal and external – you will be comfortable operating under tight timescales and managing numerous competing priorities
– You will demonstrate significant understanding of current markets, trends and issues within the broadcasting industry and wider media sector, a deep knowledge of output across the whole of the BBC as well as that of our competitors, and a clear understanding of how to enable the Proms to deliver greater Value for All for licence fee payers.

Apply here.