Executive Director

Introduction

The Educational Communications Board (ECB) is a state agency that delivers educational, noncommercial, and public safety media via Wisconsin Public Radio and PBS Wisconsin.

We are seeking an Executive Director to work in partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Madison to operate Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) and PBS Wisconsin, ensuring the delivery of public media and education services to a statewide audience.

As an employee of the State of Wisconsin, you'll have access to an amazing benefits package, including generous paid time off, low-cost insurance options, and participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System, which is considered among the best in the country. The State of Wisconsin is also a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. We are seeking a diverse and talented workforce!

Position Summary

The Educational Communications Board (ECB), is an independent state of Wisconsin agency that works in partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Madison to operate Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) and PBS Wisconsin, ensuring the delivery of public media and education services to a statewide audience. ECB also operates and maintains the statewide network of National Weather Service transmitters as well as the technical backbone for the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and AMBER Alert.

The Executive Director is appointed by the Board of Directors (Wis. Stats. 15.57). The Board meets quarterly to review, advise and approve the activities of the agency, and conducts an annual review of the Executive Director’s performance. The Executive Director shares joint oversight of PBS Wisconsin and the WPR networks with the executive director of the division of Wisconsin Public Media (WPM) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

For more information, please view the complete position description.

Salary Information

This is a full-time unclassified position. Starting salary will be between $135,200.00 and $165,547.20 annually, based on candidate qualifications plus excellent benefits.

Job Details

Due to the nature of the position, ECB will conduct background checks on applicants prior to selection. ECB does not sponsor work visas and is not an eligible OPT (Optional Practical Training) employer for F-1 international students. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility form.

This position is headquartered at 3319 W Beltline Hwy, Madison WI.

Qualifications

It is critically important that your application materials clearly describe your experience related to the stated job qualifications.

Qualified candidates will have:

• Experience leading an organization or business unit, this may include:
  • developing strategic direction
  • developing state and budget strategies
  • managing operations of a business unit
  • understanding of complex, multi-fund source budgets
  • managing staff and implementing personnel policies
  • managing workforce development and employee engagement strategies
  • understanding statutory frameworks for agency or organizational operations
  • analyzing complex situations and making senior level decisions
  • creating or implementing continuity of operations plans
• Experience developing and maintaining positive working relationships with external stakeholders. This may include:
  • developing and implementing a legislative advocacy strategy
  • working positively with fundraising organizations
  • working constructively with key partners to deliver high-quality products or services.

Well-qualified candidates may also have:

• Experience in the broadcasting or related industry
• Experience with an organization providing services over a large geographic area
• Experience interpreting and applying federal and state laws and regulations pertaining to the broadcast industry

How To Apply

The steps to apply online are quick and easy! Follow the steps outlined in the application process and submit your application. Be advised that there will be no opportunity to change your application materials once you have clicked “Submit.”

Please visit the Frequently Asked Questions section for general wisc.jobs user information and technical assistance.

Your letter of qualifications and resume are very important parts of your application and are used during our evaluation process to determine your qualifications as they relate to the job. Please review instructions on developing your resume and letter of qualifications.

Your cover letter is limited to a maximum of two (2) typed pages, single-spaced, no smaller than 10-point font, with 1-inch margins. Resumes should be limited to no more than two (2) pages (no format requirements). Pages more than the specified limits may not be evaluated. References are not necessary at this stage of the process.

Questions can be directed to [email protected].

Deadline to Apply

Applicant materials are due by 11:59pm on Monday, September 28, 2026.