Executive Producer, podcasts

Role overview

The Conversation Australia + NZ is expanding its audio work and is hiring an experienced podcast producer to take the lead on its existing shows, including The Conversation Weekly and the serial The Making Of, while also helping to create, pitch and launch new audio projects.

This is a 12-month contract based in Melbourne, with Melbourne preferred. The role reports to the Head of Editorial Innovation.

What the role involves

You will guide the editorial and creative direction of the podcast slate, produce high-quality episodes, and help shape a broader audio strategy. The position also includes tracking show performance, keeping up with industry changes, and growing the podcast audience.

The organisation is also exploring how its podcasts may be adapted for video audiences, so experience in that area would be a plus.

The ideal approach is to combine academic expertise with journalistic style, reflecting the organisation’s strengths.

Hours and contract details

Salary is listed as $100,000+ and is negotiable. The role is described as full-time with Monday to Friday office hours, although occasional out-of-hours and weekend work may be needed. Employment type is listed as part-time / onsite in the source, but the detailed hours indicate a full-time working pattern.

Who they want

The Conversation is looking for someone imaginative, ambitious, and highly competitive, with strong editorial instincts and a clear commitment to independence and impartiality. The successful person should be comfortable both doing hands-on production and stepping back to think strategically.

The organisation also values a diverse and inclusive workplace and especially welcomes applications from people with culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, First Nations applicants, and people with lived experience of disability.

Application details

Applicants should email a CV and a short audio clip of no more than 3 minutes answering the questions below. A cover letter is not required. The closing date is 6 July 2026.

• Outline your career and professional achievements.
• Explain why you are interested in the role and why you would be a strong match.
• Share a little about yourself, including any background or experience that would bring a distinctive perspective to the team.
• Confirm whether you have the right to work in Australia.

Key selection criteria

• Proven experience leading and producing engaging podcasts in an editorial environment
• Sound editorial judgement and an understanding of pacing and flow in audio storytelling
• Strong time management skills, with the ability to work to deadlines and handle several projects at once
• Experience with audio editing software and, ideally, video editing tools
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build productive working relationships
• A creative, careful, and detail-focused approach
• Strong commitment to editorial independence, accuracy, and ethical journalism