Manager Media & Community Programs (Kampala Design Podcast Department Lead)

About the Role:

The Kampala Design Podcast is a flagship product of Biara Creative Studio — our thought-leadership and storytelling platform that champions design’s role in business, technology, and culture across Africa.

Within Biara’s broader vision of empowering brands through design, strategy, and creativity, the podcast department serves as our media and community arm — producing impactful conversations, short films, events, and digital programs that spotlight design thinking and innovation on the continent.

We’re looking for a visionary Manager Media & Community Programs to lead this department — guiding its creative direction, building strong partnerships, and ensuring its long-term growth and profitability.

You’ll oversee a portfolio of initiatives — from the Kampala Design Podcast to live events, short films, and digital publications — each designed to amplify African design voices and shape how businesses engage with creativity.

Focus:

This role blends creative direction, media strategy, and business development.
You’ll define how the podcast communicates design impact across Africa — turning media ideas into sustainable programs that deliver both cultural and commercial value.

Unlike a Content Manager (who focuses on day-to-day digital execution), this Manager role operates at a strategic and visionary level — crafting narratives, managing creative teams, and building relationships that strengthen our position as thought leaders and community builders.

Key Responsibilities:

Podcast & Content Production

• Oversee planning, production, and distribution of audio and video podcast episodes.

• Manage editorial calendars, guest outreach, and storytelling direction.

• Ensure brand consistency and production quality across all content.

Creative Programming (Podcast Episodes, Short Films, Documentaries & Series)

• Develop short-form films and documentary projects around design, innovation, and business.

• Collaborate with internal and external creative teams.

• Identify and secure sponsorships and brand partnerships for productions.

Events & Community Engagement

• Lead planning and execution of Kampala Design Meetup and Design Conversations Live.

• Partner with sponsors, creative organizations, and media outlets.

• Oversee event marketing, logistics, and storytelling before and after events.

Business & Partnership Development

• Design monetization strategies for all media and community programs.

• Manage client, partner, and sponsor relationships.

• Develop proposals and drive profitable creative collaborations.

Strategy & Performance

• Define KPIs and success metrics for podcast, film, and event initiatives.

• Track analytics, audience engagement, and brand reach.

• Present quarterly insights and proposals to Biara’s leadership team.

Ideal Candidate:

• Background in Media, Communications, or Design Management.

• Strong understanding of Africa’s design, tech, and creative industries.

• Experience managing creative teams, budgets, and partnerships.

• Skilled storyteller with commercial awareness, able to turn creative projects into business opportunities.

• Excellent leadership, networking, and strategic planning skills.

Why Join Us:

You’ll lead the storytelling engine that defines how African design is seen, discussed, and celebrated. From podcasts to live experiences, your work will shape the future of design communication and connect brands, designers, and audiences through meaningful content.

Ready to grow with us?

Send your CV and a short cover letter to kampaladesignpodcast@gmail.com with the subject line:

“Manager Media & Community Programs - Kampala Design Podcast”

Join us and help us connect creativity with opportunity.