Programmplaner

Programmplaner is a professional role in broadcasting responsible for designing and maintaining the program schedule of a television, radio, or streaming service. The position involves selecting content, ordering it in a coherent sequence, and determining broadcast times to optimize audience engagement, schedule efficiency, and commercial value. Planning covers daily, weekly, and seasonal grids and requires attention to content rights, licensing, and regulatory constraints.

Key duties include evaluating content, deciding acquisitions or renewals, and placing programs on the grid, while coordinating with production, marketing, and sales to align launches with promotions and sponsor commitments. Programmplaner also responds to real-time events, adjusts schedules for overruns, and maintains a balanced mix of genres and audiences.

To perform effectively, they rely on audience data, ratings, and market research, along with scheduling software and rights management tools. Collaboration with program managers, editors, and technicians is common, as is negotiation with licensors. They must ensure compliance with advertising limits and other regulatory requirements.

Typical qualifications include a background in media studies, communications, or journalism, plus practical experience in scheduling or content acquisition. In German-speaking regions the title Programmplaner is common; in other markets related roles may be called program scheduler or scheduling manager and may operate within different organizational structures.