π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Programmatic Manager
πΉ Company: NBCUniversal
πΉ Location: New York, NY
πΉ Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid
πΉ Category: Advertising & Marketing
πΉ Date Posted: May 19, 2025
πΉ Experience Level: Mid-level (2-5 years)
πΉ Remote Status: On-site with hybrid flexibility
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Managing day-to-day operations of the Programmatic Ad Operations team
- Communicating technical issues to non-technical stakeholders
- Providing training and support to Sales and Sales Operations teams
- Developing strategic relationships with business partners and vendors
- Overseeing indirect demand business and managing the Indirect Demand Campaign Manager
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of technical understanding, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage teams and projects effectively.
π Key Responsibilities
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Manage day-to-day operations of the Programmatic Ad Operations team, including onboarding and development of direct reports
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Communicate technical issues, particularly deal escalations, in a manner understandable to non-technical audiences
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Provide training and troubleshooting support to Sales and Sales Operations teams
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Develop and maintain strategic relationships with business partners and vendors
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Oversee indirect demand business and manage the Indirect Demand Campaign Manager
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Establish and improve workflows, processes, and goals for measuring and improving product output
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Contribute to leadership meetings and strategic planning for the Sales Operations organization
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of team management, technical problem-solving, and strategic planning, requiring a versatile skill set.
π― Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required
Experience: 3+ years of Digital Ad Operations experience, with 1+ year in the programmatic field and understanding of the indirect demand ecosystem
Required Skills:
- Proven ability to understand and communicate using technical language
- Familiarity with work management and documentation tools, preferably Jira and Confluence
- Excellent communication skills and attention to detail
Preferred Skills:
- Knowledge of FreeWheel and Magnite SSP
- Prior experience working directly with DSP and/or SSP partners
- Fluency in Microsoft Excel
- Documentation enthusiast
- Experience working for a large-scale media company, specifically within/ supporting Advertising Sales
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should have a strong foundation in digital ad operations and programmatic advertising, with a willingness to learn and adapt in a dynamic environment.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $95,000 - $130,000 (bonus eligible)
Benefits:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) plan
- Paid leave
- Tuition reimbursement
- Variety of discounts and perks
Working Hours: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility for weekend work during live events
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is competitive for the mid-level experience required and the industry standard for similar roles in the New York area.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Entertainment Providers. NBCUniversal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies, creating and distributing content across various platforms and bringing experiences to life through theme parks and consumer experiences.
Company Size: 10,001+ employees. As a large organization, NBCUniversal offers extensive resources and opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Founded: NBCUniversal was founded in 2004, following the acquisition of Universal Studios by General Electric. It has since grown into a global media and entertainment powerhouse.
Company Description:
- Owns and operates leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, MSNBC, CNBC, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, USA Network, and Peacock
- Produces and distributes filmed entertainment and programming through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and Universal Studio Group
- Has world-renowned theme parks and attractions through Universal Destinations & Experiences
Company Specialties:
- Content creation and distribution
- Theme parks and consumer experiences
- Advertising and marketing
Company Website: NBCUniversal.com
ASSUMPTION: NBCUniversal's extensive portfolio of brands and content makes it an attractive employer for those interested in media and entertainment.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level. This role requires several years of experience in digital ad operations and programmatic advertising.
Reporting Structure: The Programmatic Manager reports to the Senior Manager, Programmatic Sales Operations and oversees the Indirect Demand Campaign Manager.
Work Arrangement: Hybrid. This role requires contributing from the office a minimum of three days per week.
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to advance to senior management roles within the Sales Operations organization
- Opportunities to expand expertise in programmatic advertising and digital ad operations
- Possibility to work on high-profile projects and events, gaining valuable experience and exposure
ASSUMPTION: NBCUniversal's large size and diverse portfolio offer numerous growth opportunities for motivated employees.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Corporate office. NBCUniversal's headquarters is located in New York City, with additional offices worldwide.
Office Location(s): 1221 Avenue of The Americas, New York, NY 10020
Geographic Context:
- New York City is a major global hub for media, entertainment, and finance
- The office is located in Midtown Manhattan, offering easy access to public transportation and numerous amenities
- The city offers a diverse cultural scene, with numerous attractions, museums, and entertainment options
Work Schedule: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility for weekend work during live events
ASSUMPTION: The New York City location provides ample opportunities for networking and professional growth within the media and entertainment industry.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application and resume screening
- Phone or video screen with a member of the HR team
- On-site or virtual interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
- Final interview with a senior leader or panel of interviewers
Key Assessment Areas:
- Technical knowledge of digital ad operations and programmatic advertising
- Communication skills and ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
- Leadership and team management skills
- Problem-solving and strategic thinking
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role
- Demonstrate your understanding of the programmatic landscape and indirect demand ecosystem
- Showcase your ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and concisely
ATS Keywords: Programmatic, Ad Operations, Digital Advertising, Indirect Demand, Sales Operations, Technical Communication, Team Management, Workflow Improvement
ASSUMPTION: NBCUniversal's application process is designed to assess candidates' technical skills, communication abilities, and cultural fit within the organization.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Jira and Confluence for project management and documentation
- FreeWheel and Magnite SSP for programmatic advertising
- Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting
ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with these tools is essential for success in this role, and candidates should be comfortable learning and using new technologies as needed.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Innovation: NBCUniversal encourages creativity and continuous learning
- Collaboration: The company fosters a culture of teamwork and partnership
- Excellence: NBCUniversal strives for high-quality content and exceptional customer experiences
Work Style:
- Fast-paced: The advertising industry is dynamic and ever-changing, requiring adaptability and quick decision-making
- Collaborative: NBCUniversal values teamwork and cross-functional collaboration
- Data-driven: The company uses data and analytics to inform decision-making and improve performance
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment?
- Are you comfortable working with diverse teams and stakeholders?
- Do you have a strong attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality work?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who align with NBCUniversal's values and work style will be most successful in this role.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Communicating complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
- Balancing the needs of internal and external customers
- Keeping up with the rapidly evolving programmatic advertising landscape
ASSUMPTION: These challenges require strong project management, communication, and adaptability skills, as well as a deep understanding of the programmatic advertising ecosystem.
π Similar Roles Comparison
- Unlike other roles in digital ad operations, this position focuses specifically on programmatic guaranteed and private marketplace deals
- This role requires a strong understanding of the indirect demand ecosystem and experience working with DSP and/or SSP partners
- Career progression in this role could lead to senior management positions within the Sales Operations organization or expanded expertise in programmatic advertising
ASSUMPTION: This role offers unique opportunities and challenges compared to other digital ad operations positions, requiring specific skills and knowledge.
π Sample Projects
- Managing the onboarding and development of direct reports, including the Indirect Demand Campaign Manager
- Communicating technical issues and escalations to non-technical stakeholders, such as sales teams and internal customers
- Developing and maintaining strategic relationships with business partners and vendors, such as DSPs and SSPs
ASSUMPTION: These projects demonstrate the key responsibilities and required skills for success in this role.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the most significant challenges facing the Programmatic Ad Operations team currently, and how can this role address them?
- How does this role fit into the broader Sales Operations organization, and what opportunities are there for growth and collaboration?
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
- How does NBCUniversal support the professional development and growth of its employees?
- What is the company's approach to work-life balance, and how is it supported in this role?
ASSUMPTION: These questions help candidates understand the role's context, expectations, and opportunities for growth within NBCUniversal.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare examples of your problem-solving and communication skills, demonstrating your ability to explain technical concepts clearly
- Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative within one week of submission, inquiring about the status of your application
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.