Senior Studio Automation Video Director

THE OPPORTUNITY

We’re looking for an experienced Senior Studio Automation Video Director to take the lead on live and recorded broadcasts in a high‑pressure, news‑driven environment. This is a hands‑on role at the heart of our studio operations, where you’ll be trusted to deliver smooth, professional output while adapting instantly to breaking news and changing priorities.

You’ll work closely with producers, presenters, technical teams and the wider business to bring stories to our audience with precision, creativity and speed.

Early morning starts is part of this role, reflecting the pace and immediacy of live news production to an educated NZ Herald audience.

If you thrive on live television, love problem‑solving under pressure and are excited by Directing morning show news, this role offers the chance to make a real impact.

HOW YOU’LL DO IT

You’ll take full responsibility for directing live and recorded studio broadcasts using studio automation systems, ensuring every show runs seamlessly to air. You’ll manage live streams — both scheduled and reactive — and confidently steer productions through breaking news situations.

Beyond directing, you’ll oversee the studio environment, including video, audio, and lighting , working to maintain the highest quality show, each and every day.

You’ll edit items and packages for playout, support post‑production when required, and collaborate with teams across the business on integration and sponsorship requirements.

You’ll also play a key role in expanding content creation, supporting new ideas, formats and products, while keeping up to date with industry best practice and emerging studio automation technologies.

ABOUT YOU

You’ll bring at least two years’ experience as a studio director, ideally within a live news or broadcast environment, and be confident working with studio automation systems and live workflows.

You’re calm, decisive and solutions‑focused, able to multitask and adapt quickly when news breaks. Early starts and flexible hours MUST suit you, and you bring stamina, reliability and a strong sense of ownership to every shift.

You communicate clearly, work collaboratively with diverse teams, and understand the importance of confidentiality in a commercial media environment. Experience with newsroom automation programmes is highly valued, and vMix knowledge is a bonus, alongside editing, post‑production and social media distribution experience.

You’ll value a collaborative and supportive environment in content creation and challenging historical ways of thinking. You’ll thrive in ‘whats next’?

WHAT’S ON OFFER

This is a full‑time opportunity to work at the cutting edge of live news production in a collaborative, fast‑moving environment.

You’ll gain hands‑on exposure to innovative studio technology, play a key role in shaping live output, and contribute to the growth of new content and products.

You’ll be supported by a passionate team who value expertise, adaptability and creative thinking — and you’ll have the chance to build a strong portfolio of high‑profile, live broadcast work.

To apply, please submit your CV along with a portfolio or reel demonstrating your directing experience. References will be requested at the second interview stage.

All applicants will be asked about their working rights in New Zealand (e.g. citizen, resident, visa holder, or no current working rights).