Senior Manager, Digital Storytelling

Include a cover letter address to hiring manager: Lisa Lepore.

POSITION SUMMARY

THIS IS NOT A MARKETING ROLE

The Senior Manager of Digital Storytelling is a strategic and creative leader who advances Braille Institute’s mission through high-quality, accessible podcasts, audio programming and digital content designed for people who are blind, have low vision or are experiencing vision changes. This role oversees the strategy, development, production, distribution and evaluation of podcasts and recorded programming that attract and engage new audiences nationwide. The Senior Manager will develop content supporting both the Braille Institute and Vision Support America brands. This may include distinct programming tailored to each brand’s audiences, needs and objectives, as well as content that creates meaningful connections between the two. This position offers a rare creative opportunity to build an emerging area from the ground up. Working closely with the Senior Director of Library Services, the Senior Manager will expand the Library’s reach through innovative audio and video formats, emerging technologies and engaging storytelling. The role will also direct voice-over and on‑screen talent and provide strategic leadership for studio operations and utilization.

WHY THIS ROLE MATTERS

Library Services is Braille Institute’s largest program and a vital source of literacy, lifelong learning and community connection for people who are blind, have low vision or have other print disabilities. This role will help position Braille Institute as a national leader in accessible podcasting, audio storytelling and digital learning. Through Braille Institute and Vision Support America content, the Senior Manager will reach audiences at different points in their vision journey—from people beginning to experience vision changes to those seeking more specialized resources, services and community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership and Audience Growth Develop and execute a digital storytelling strategy that expands Braille Institute’s audio and video offerings and attracts and engages new patrons nationwide. Create programming specifically designed for people who are blind or have low vision, with particular attention to underserved older adults and people who are newer to vision loss. Develop content strategies for both Braille Institute and Vision Support America, recognizing that each brand may require distinct topics, formats, voices and audience approaches. Identify opportunities for content to introduce Vision Support America audiences to Braille Institute’s broader expertise, programs, and Library Services in a clear and authentic way. Lead the evolution of the Library’s audio services by exploring and implementing innovative formats, distribution strategies, and audience‑engagement approaches. Track audience, media, and technology trends to ensure offerings remain relevant, accessible, and aligned with Braille Institute’s mission and growth goals. Establish goals and performance indicators for audience reach, engagement, patron acquisition, and content effectiveness. Podcast and Digital Content Development Manage the full production lifecycle for podcasts and other creative audio and video projects, including concept development, research, scripting, guest identification and vetting, recording, editing, post‑production, and publishing. Develop and launch podcasts under Braille Institute and Vision Support America, as appropriate, with content and presentation tailored to each brand’s intended audience. Establish and manage distribution through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and other relevant podcast and streaming platforms to maximize reach, discoverability, and engagement. Develop podcast titles, descriptions, show notes, metadata, and other supporting content that improve accessibility and audience discovery. Coordinate content distribution and promotion with Marketing and Communications to build awareness, attract new audiences, and encourage participation in Braille Institute Library and Vision Support America services. Ensure all productions meet established quality, accessibility, and National Library Service standards and provide a seamless, engaging experience for audiences who are blind or have low vision. Develop and maintain production standards, workflows, and best practices that foster quality, consistency, and efficiency. Manage assigned budgets for Library podcasts, digital programming, and media production. Monitor and analyze podcast and digital‑content metrics, including reach, downloads, listening completion, audience retention, engagement, and conversion to Library or other services. Recommend studio equipment, software, and technology investments based on production goals, accessibility requirements, and emerging opportunities. Webinar and Event Production Direct the technical production of live, virtual, and hybrid Library events to ensure high production values, accessibility, and seamless delivery. Design workflows that allow live programs to be repurposed into accessible, on‑demand audio and video content. Ensure virtual and recorded content is easy to access and navigate for people who use screen readers or other assistive technologies. Troubleshoot technical issues and implement ongoing improvements based on audience feedback, performance data, and production experience. Voice-Over and On‑Screen Talent Build and manage a diverse network of professional and volunteer voice‑over artists, narrators, hosts, and on‑screen presenters. Partner with Volunteer Services on recruitment and management of volunteer talent. Lead auditions, onboarding, training, and creative direction to ensure talent delivers engaging, consistent, and accessible content. Develop style guides, quality‑control standards, and feedback processes that strengthen performance and reduce onboarding time. Coordinate talent scheduling and production logistics to keep projects on time and maintain a consistent publishing cadence. Negotiate talent agreements and maintain a pipeline of backup and emerging talent so critical projects are not dependent on a single narrator, host or presenter. Gather and analyze patron feedback regarding narrator, host, and presenter preferences to inform future casting and creative decisions. Audio Description and Video Accessibility Guide and support the creation of audio‑described and otherwise accessible video content for people who are blind or have low vision. Ensure video content incorporates appropriate accessibility features, which may include audio description, captions, transcripts, accessible graphics, and clear verbal explanation of visual information. Stay informed about evolving accessibility standards, technologies, and best practices. Establish feedback channels with patrons and consumers to continually improve accessibility and the overall content experience. Collaboration and National Leadership Partner with the Senior Director of Digital Services to align content strategy with patron growth goals and broader digital‑engagement initiatives. Collaborate with Programs, Marketing and Communications, Development, and other departments to amplify storytelling, increase awareness, and expand participation in Library and Vision Support America offerings. Work with Marketing and Communications to ensure content reflects the positioning, voice, and visual identity of the appropriate brand. Center the perspectives and lived experiences of people who are blind, have low vision or are experiencing vision changes in content planning, production, and evaluation. Represent Braille Institute with national partners, industry forums, and National Library Service committees to advance best practices and strengthen the organization’s leadership in accessible Library Services and digital storytelling.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education Bachelor’s degree in audio or video production, media production, journalism, digital strategy, library science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience. Experience Five to seven years of progressively responsible experience in audio and video production, podcasting, digital‑content strategy, broadcasting, journalism or library technology services. Demonstrated experience managing the complete podcast production process, from concept development through publishing and promotion. Proven success developing content strategies that grow audiences and engagement across digital platforms. Experience creating content for people with disabilities or applying accessibility standards is strongly preferred. Experience building a new program, function or content operation is preferred. Technical and Leadership Skills Advanced proficiency with professional audio and video production and editing tools, such as Adobe Audition, Pro Tools, Audacity, Adobe Premiere Pro or comparable platforms. Strong editorial judgment, storytelling ability and passion for audio content. Thorough understanding of podcast hosting, RSS distribution, and publishing through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and other major platforms. Expertise in webinar and virtual‑event platforms, including Zoom and Microsoft Teams, and in repurposing live content for on‑demand delivery. Knowledge of accessibility best practices for podcasts, audio and video content, including audio description, captions, transcripts and accessible metadata. Knowledge of National Library Service standards and services is preferred. Strong project‑management, organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage multiple productions and deadlines. Ability to effectively direct employees, contractors, volunteers, narrators, hosts, and other creative talent. Strong communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills. Demonstrated user‑centered mindset and commitment to incorporating feedback from people who are blind, have low vision or have other print disabilities. Ability to use audience data and performance metrics to improve content and inform strategic decisions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work is performed in studio and office environments, with occasional evening or weekend support for events and productions. Must be able to operate recording, video, and audiovisual equipment. Must be able to lift and move equipment weighing up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. Occasional local travel may be required. #J-18808-Ljbffr Braille Institute of America