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Each week we'll be asking people from all parts of the media industry - from channel controllers to catering staff, directors to digital technicians - to tell us about themselves and their job.
This week it's the turn of GCap Media's John Hirst, who heads up its production, content and services arm, Creation.
Name
John Hirst
Job Title
Head of Creation, GCap Media.
Age
33
Lives
London and Canterbury
In the role since
2002
Responsibilities
Creation is the production company for GCap Media, and we look after podcasts for the whole company, as well as external customers. We are a BBC independent producer, we have an in-store commission [for in store radio], and we operate radio stations for customers such as Fun Radio, Holiday FM and OurKindofMusic.
Best thing about your job
The variety, research and development, and the free hand I am allowed at GCap.
Worst thing about your job
There are so many opportunities that you have to prioritise and only do certain things. You can't do everything.
First thing you do in the morning when you get in
Have a cup of tea in my King George III tea cup and saucer, because I refuse to drink tea out of a mug!
Any downsides to working in the media?
All your friends thinking you can get them free tickets to concerts.
First media job
Assistant producer and runner, Invicta FM, 1989
Question you have been asked most this week
"Is it okay to talk, I thought you were on holiday?"
Biggest achievement to date
Staying healthy, is a personal one. Career-wise, being a GWR radio station managing director at the age of 26, the youngest ever!
Anything you wish you'd done differently?
Bought more houses when the house prices were cheaper.
Dream job/company/lifestyle
A worthwhile MP, director-general of the BBC or Hugh Hefner.
Best media jolly you've ever attended
The Middle East radio conference in Dubai was good. Also the European NAB [National Association of Broadcasters] - the one in Athens was really good.
(It's Barcelona this year folks - JO)
What is your favourite radio moment of all time?
When I ran Medway FM, one day the programme controller had just started his show, but he couldn't get his headphones to plug in. He leant over the desk to get the guest headphones and accidentally knocked the microphone to 'on', and was heard to say: "F**k it, this is a nightmare." Having that on my desk as an ROT [Recording of Transmission] from the news team within five minutes was hilarious. Also, Today in Parliament on Radio 4, which I think is the best comedy programme on radio.
Next big thing in radio?
People-wise, Bam-Bam and Russell Brand will continue to do well. In technology terms, podcasting will continue to grow and the content will become more interesting as people gets their heads around what podcasting is. I think we're really only just at the start of podcasting.
