Access Services Manager

Job Title: Access Services Manager

Reports to: Content Delivery Manager

Department: Content Management

Location : Any C4 Office

Job Grade: M

DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION

The Content Management department supports the delivery of Channel 4 content across linear channels, Streaming, FAST channels and VOD syndication.

The team works collaboratively with internal departments and third-party providers to deliver agile, resilient and business-critical operations that support Channel 4’s evolving content strategy. This includes content and platform launches, live events, listings and programme information, graphics and access services.

Access Services is a vital part of this remit, helping ensure Channel 4 content is accessible, compliant and inclusive across platforms.

JOB PURPOSE

Channel 4 is committed to making its content accessible, inclusive and compliant across all platforms. Access Services plays a vital role in delivering that commitment for audiences across linear, Streaming and other digital services.

The Access Services Manager will lead the operational delivery and continued development of Channel 4’s access services - subtitling, audio description and signing. The role will support growth in access provision, enhance accessible coverage of live events and ensure audience insight helps shape service delivery.

The post holder will support Media Act implementation, help Channel 4 meet and exceed its regulatory obligations, and act as a company-wide subject matter expert, identifying opportunities to improve accessibility workflows, technology and audience experience.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Act as Channel 4’s first point of contact and subject matter expert for Access Services queries, initiatives and best practice across the business.
• Manage and develop relationships with Access Services suppliers, third-party providers, technology partners and relevant industry stakeholders.
• Lead the selection, preparation, delivery and archiving of subtitling, audio description and signing across Channel 4 content, working closely with Scheduling and other internal teams.
• Oversee delivery of sign-presented programming through Channel 4’s content partnership with LumoTV.
• Ensure Channel 4 meets and exceeds current and incoming Ofcom Access Services requirements, including monitoring, reporting and supporting implementation of new regulatory obligations.
• Own end-to-end operational delivery of Access Services across relevant platforms, tracking content, resolving issues and supporting timely delivery for linear, Streaming and partner services.
• Lead editorial standards and quality assurance for Access Services, working with suppliers to maintain and improve editorial practice.
• Manage Access Services budgets, cost forecasting, purchase orders, invoices, contracts and related commercial processes.
• Work collaboratively with Content Management, Broadcast Operations, Technology, Commissioning, Content Strategy, Acquisitions, Streaming, Product, Equity and Inclusion, and other internal teams on operational, strategic and accessibility initiatives.
• Represent Channel 4 externally on Access Services and accessibility matters, including engagement with Ofcom, audience groups, charities, broadcasters, streamers, conferences and industry forums.

ESSENTIAL EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

• Proven Access Services experience, with a strong operational understanding of broadcast, Streaming and VOD environments.
• Strong knowledge of Ofcom Access Services requirements, including current regulations and future obligations.
• Experience managing Access Services suppliers, contracts, SLAs, budgets and commercial relationships.
• Strong understanding of end-to-end content workflows, including scheduling, media management, metadata, file-based delivery and relevant broadcast, CMS/BMS, MAM and VOD systems.
• Knowledge of Access Services production processes, including subtitling, audio description and signing workflows.
• Excellent prioritisation, time-management and decision-making skills, with the ability to deliver high-quality services under tight transmission and launch deadlines.
• Confident stakeholder manager, able to build strong relationships, influence decisions and collaborate effectively across internal and external teams.
• Self-motivated and adaptable, with the judgement to manage competing priorities in fast-moving operational environments.

RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Access Services providers, internal teams, senior stakeholders, Policy colleagues, Ofcom and other external partners.
• Communicate clearly and confidently with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels, providing guidance and influencing decisions where required.
• Manage competing priorities across multiple teams and suppliers, driving clarity, alignment and effective collaboration in fast-moving operational environments.