Studio Manager
About Pivot & Post Studios
Pivot & Post Studios is a DC-based podcast and video production studio built for the people shaping public conversation. We offer professional recording spaces, production support, and a community built around mission-driven media. We launched in 2026, and we are growing fast. We are looking for a leader to help us build this into something lasting.
The Role
This is not a typical studio job. The Studio Manager is the person who owns the studio: the production quality, the client relationships, the day-to-day operations, and the business development that keeps us growing. This is a fixed-term contract engagement covering the studio's launch and ramp-up period, July through November 2026. You will work directly with the founding partners, bring your own instincts and relationships to the table, and help shape what Pivot & Post becomes.
The ideal candidate has serious production chops and genuine charisma. You can troubleshoot a live audio issue and walk a high-profile guest through their first podcast recording in the same morning. You understand the DC media and public affairs landscape, or you are excited to learn it fast. And you are motivated by building something from the ground up.
What You Will Do
Studio Leadership and Production
- Own the quality and consistency of every session that runs through the studio
- Operate and oversee all studio equipment including multi-camera setups, audio, lighting, and OBS
- Serve as lead producer for complex sessions including live productions, live streams, and high-profile recordings
- Build and maintain studio standards, workflows, and training materials
- Eventually hire and manage studio operators as the team grows
Client and Talent Relations
- Be the primary point of contact for clients and talent at the studio
- Build lasting relationships that generate repeat business and referrals
- Manage the full client experience from intake through delivery
- Represent the studio externally with professionalism and genuine enthusiasm
Operations and Scheduling
- Manage logistics across multiple studios and session types
- Develop and refine operational processes as we scale
- Serve as the operational point person for the founding partners
Business Development
- Support the partners in identifying and pursuing new client opportunities
- Contribute to marketing, outreach, and positioning efforts
- Bring your own network and relationships to help grow the studio's client base
- Help develop packages, pricing, and service offerings over time
What We Are Looking For
- A track record of managing client or talent relationships at a high level
- Natural ease with people across a wide range of backgrounds, from independent creators to senior communications professionals
- Strong operational instincts and the organizational discipline to run a busy, multi-room studio
- Significant hands-on experience in studio production is a plus: audio, lighting, multi-camera, live stream, and post-production workflows
- Entrepreneurial energy, you are excited by the challenge of building something new, not just maintaining what exists
- Experience in or familiarity with DC media, political, advocacy, or public affairs circles is a meaningful plus
- Experience managing or mentoring junior staff is a plus
The Details
- Engagement: Independent contractor (1099)
- Term: July to November 2026, a fixed-term engagement covering the studio's launch and ramp-up period
- Commitment: Full-time-equivalent hours for the duration of the term
- Monthly Fee: $9,000 to $12,000 per month, depending on experience
- Performance Compensation: Eligible for additional performance-based compensation tied to new business generated and client referrals
- Studio space and production equipment are provided
- Potential to convert to a permanent, full-time role after the November 2026 election, based on fit and continued studio growth
- As an independent contractor, you are responsible for your own taxes and are not eligible for employee benefits