What does a Studio Manager do?
Studio managers oversee the daily operations at a recording studio. Their duties run the gamut from studio and gear maintenance to business operations and customer relations. They are responsible for the smooth and profitable operation of a recording studio, including coordinating with artists, producers, managers, and labels; and hiring and supervising technical and creative staff. Completing accounting tasks such as payroll and billing may also fall to the studio manager, although those who manage large studios typically will delegate such duties to hired staff. In small studios, the studio manager may also be the lead recording engineer.
At a Glance
There are no formal educational requirements for this senior position. Most studio managers have experience as recording engineers, mixing engineers, or producers. Some, however, work their way up after working in project management, studio booking, or as administrative assistants.
Studio managers work for recording studios of all shapes and sizes. While an experienced lead recording engineer might qualify for studio manager positions advertised online, most must first work their way up the ladder from entry-level jobs and internships at recording studios.
Knowledge of recording sessions and studio operations; audio engineering; administrative skills; budgeting; personnel management; schedule management; networking and artist relations
Flexible; cool-headed; excellent problem-solving skills; organized; detail-oriented; communication and networking abilities
Business hours are largely standard, although studio managers need to be available by phone 24/7 for emergencies, and may work late nights to support the engineering staff during a big star's studio visit.
