Senior Producer Mandate - Ukhozi FM

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC (SOC) Limited, is a Schedule 2 (Major Public Entity) entity in terms of the Public Finance Management Act NO. 1 of 1999, as amended. It was established through an Act of Parliament in 1936, which replaced the previous state-controlled African Broadcasting Corporation. This was followed by the enactment of the Broadcasting Act NO. 4 of 1999 in which section 7 allowed for the establishment of the SABC. Each of the radio and television services under the SABC portfolio are licensed separately by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) and required to adhere to their respective license conditions, and the provisions of the Broadcasting Act as well as the Broadcasting Charter. Over the years, the public service provider has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the delivery of its mandate through showcasing content aimed at informing, educating and entertaining its audiences. Its portfolio includes 19 radio stations and 5 television channels which command millions of audiences on a daily basis. The main purpose of the position To lead and manage the development, production, and multi-platform delivery of mandate programming (Drama, Education, Religion, and Sport) by translating station strategy into high-quality, compliant, and audience-relevant content, in line with ICASA regulations, licence conditions, and organisational objectives. Key Accountabilities Contribute to and operationalise the station's programming strategy within mandate areas (Drama, Education, Religion, and Sport). Develop and implement a mandate content strategy and annual content plan for the commissioning, acquisition, and production of high-quality programming aligned with licence conditions and audience needs. Ensure a balanced and compliant mix of programming genres in line with licence conditions, including drama, education, religion, sport, culture, language development, social cohesion, and public value content. Integrate audience insights, research findings, PMRAC recommendations, and public feedback into content planning and execution. Lead the commissioning, development, and production of mandate programming across all formats and platforms. Ensure all programme briefs, scripts, and final content meet required editorial, creative, and technical standards. Oversee internal and external content providers to ensure quality, consistency, and alignment with station positioning and mandate objectives. Drive innovation in storytelling and content formats, including audio-first and multi-platform offerings. Ensure adherence to the station's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and approved production processes. Ensure full compliance with ICASA licence conditions, BCCSA Code, SABC Editorial Policies, and all applicable legislation. Monitor adherence to local content quotas, language obligations, and genre requirements. Quality assure all mandate content submissions before broadcast. Compile and submit all required compliance and regulatory reports (ICASA, SAMRO, SAMPRA, BCCSA, and related bodies). Maintain internal control measures and audit mechanisms to proactively manage compliance risks. Keep abreast of legislative and regulatory developments impacting the broadcast value chain. Execute programming formats and schedules in line with licence conditions, ensuring an appropriate balance across content categories and audience expectations. Monitor programme output to ensure alignment with station strategy, brand positioning, and quality standards. Conduct continuous reviews of programming, market trends, and audience behaviour to maintain competitiveness and relevance. Lead the development and distribution of mandate content across radio, digital, and emerging platforms. Ensure content is optimised for on-air broadcast, streaming, podcasting, and social media engagement. Implement multi-platform content plans in line with approved strategies and briefs. Track and analyse performance metrics (audience reach, engagement, consumption patterns) to inform content decisions. Liaise with internal stakeholders (Sales, Marketing, Research, Finance) to align mandate programming with broader organisational objectives. Collaborate with Commercial Enterprises and Business Development on sponsorships, trade exchanges, branded content, and revenue opportunities. Build and maintain relationships with external producers, partners, and industry bodies. Manage public engagement processes and respond to audience feedback and complaints. Develop and manage mandate programming budgets, ensuring cost-effective delivery and financial accountability. Manage and allocate resources effectively to ensure delivery of programming outputs within budget. Identify and implement opportunities for co-productions, pre-sales, and cost efficiencies. Ensure financial compliance and adherence to organisational policies and procedures. Monitor programme performance against audience, quality, and compliance indicators. Utilise research and analytics to improve content relevance, strengthen audience connection, and inform scheduling and format decisions. Conduct content reviews and post-broadcast evaluations to drive continuous improvement and innovation. Monitor and report on operational risks and compliance matters. Implement risk management plans in line with the organisational risk framework, including internal controls, monitoring, and evaluation. Conduct internal audits, identify gaps, and implement corrective actions. Lead, coach, and develop the mandate programming team to achieve high performance. Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Ensure effective communication, fair workload distribution, and optimal team utilisation. Carry out any other reasonable duties to ensure efficient and effective station operations. Requirements: National diploma or degree in Media Studies, Speech & Drama, Linguistics, Education, or a related field (NQF Level 6). Minimum 4 - 5 years' experience in radio and/or audio content production, including experience in mandate-driven programming. Excellent command of isiZulu, including advanced proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension, with a deep understanding of linguistic nuances, cultural context, and audience relevance. Comprehensive understanding of applicable legislative and regulatory frameworks, including ICASA, BCCSA Code, SABC Editorial Policies, and broadcast compliance requirements, as well as programme formats, clocks, and quality standards. Proven leadership and people management capability, including team development, performance management, and coaching. Proficiency in information and content management systems relevant to broadcast environments. Good understanding of the media landscape and key industry stakeholders. Proven creativity and innovation in developing programme concepts, briefs, and scripts. Demonstrated experience in digital and multi-platform content production, including streaming, podcasting, and social media integration. Strong strategic thinking and planning capability, with the ability to translate programming strategy into executable content plans. Ability to develop reporting frameworks and processes to ensure accountability and compliance. Advanced knowledge of radio production processes, systems, and workflows. Sound financial management, budgeting, and forward planning capability. Strong project management skills. Well-developed editorial judgement and acumen. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Deadline:22nd September,2026