Kathie Gruber Jones
Valparaiso,United States
Summary
Adept at crisis management and fostering crew collaboration, I've significantly enhanced broadcast quality and team performance at CBS2 Chicago. My strategic planning and innovative approach have led to notable improvements in live production efficiency. With a proven track record in media relations and decision-making, I excel in high-pressure environments, ensuring seamless project coordination and execution.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
DGA Director/Assistant Director/ Stage Manager
CBS2 Chicago Channel2 CBS O & O
12.2003 - 10.2024
- Build and code nightly newscast on Sony ELC systems - Direct/execute the shows on live television broadcast - coordinate all live shots- supervise production crew members.
- Outstanding computer skills, the capacity to operate in a high-pressure, fast-paced work environment, good organizational abilities, and experience with robotic cameras, graphics systems (Chyron & VizRT, audio consoles, and video and audio servers.
- Breaking news organizational skills with quick decisions in a calm, collective approach.
- Stage manage all out of studio productions including Red Cross Telethons, DNC, Special Remote Productions and parades.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
DGA Director/Stage Manager
Fox32 WFLD Chicago Fox O & O
09.2018 - 06.2022
- Direct Newscasts, news briefs and additional studio productions using the Sony ELC production automation system.
- Coordinate multiple live shots per show from microwave, satellite and LiveU sources.
- Perform daily checks and maintenance of studio lighting and production equipment.
Server Manager
Nicks Fish House
Chicago, IL
11.2014 - 11.2017
- Circulated within assigned areas to assess and address customer needs, effectively prioritizing tasks during peak hours.
- Provided cross and ongoing training to help servers and wait staff improve skills crucial for productivity.
- Communicated with hosts, bussers and kitchen staff to prepare for and serve customers.
- Took reservations and to-go orders to streamline process for both customer and restaurant.
- Implemented feedback from customers to improve service quality and menu offerings.
- Brought wine selections to tables with appropriate glasses and poured for customers.
DGA Newscast Director/Stage Manager
NBC 5 News Chicago
05.2013 - 02.2017
- Directed 2 hours of newscasts and other morning productions.
- Interact and work as a team with On-Air Talent, Graphics, Producers and News Production teams.
- Strong leadership and supervisory skills with an energetic and proactive approach.
- Worked in production on robotic cameras, prompter, and the audio board.
- Operated Chyron character generator, still store.
Server
Hyatt Regency Mccormick Place
Chicago, IL
07.2003 - 11.2006
- Informed customers of daily specials and signature menu items.
- Set up banquet rooms for special events such as weddings or corporate functions.
- Provided detailed information on menu items, including ingredients and preparation methods.
- Displayed enthusiasm and knowledge about restaurant's menu and products.
- Maintained knowledge of current menu items, garnishes, ingredients, and preparation methods.
- Served food and beverages to patrons and confirmed complete orders.
Director/Assistant Director/Stage Manager
WGN-TV Channel9
02.1998 - 12.2003
- Responsible for directing 3 hour broadcast which including 1 hour of street performances.
- Director - Muscular Dystrophy Telethon Responsible for all local segments interior to the MDA Telethon running from Sunday evening to Monday evening
- Floor Director -Newscast director for news programs including the WGN Midday News, "The Nine O'Clock News" and the Weekend Morning News as well as various community affairs shows
- Stage Manager/Assistant Director- The Bozo Show Responsible for audience management and selecting kids to participate in various games on the show-responsible for prop coordination.
- WGN SPORTS-working in the control room and out on location to provide assistance to Director and on air talent
Food and Beverage Server
Dingus Mcgee's Roadhouse
Colfax, CA
01.1994 - 06.1997
- Followed proper sanitation standards when handling food and beverage items.
- Trained new employees to perform duties.
- Performed opening side work duties such as filling salt shakers or rolling silverware into napkins.
- Explained menu options to guests, offered suggestions and took orders for food and beverages.
- Promoted desserts, appetizers, and specialty drinks to optimize sales.
- Checked back with guests to ensure satisfaction with their meals.
- Presented menus to patrons and answered questions about menu items, making recommendations upon request.
Education
Associate of Arts - Telecommunications
Indiana University Bloomington
Bloomington, IN01-2001
Skills
- Media relations
- Strategic planning
- Crew collaboration
- Issues resolution
- Cast and crew supervision
- Project coordination
- Camera angles
- Creativity and innovation
- Time management
- Verbal and written communication
- Team management
Awards
Chicago Midwest Emmy Nomination Outstanding Achievement for Individual Excellence Off Camera “HD By Candlelight: A Christmas Celebration” Directing Live, National Emmy Outstanding Achievement for News Programming Fire in the CTA, Director., Chicago Midwest Emmy Outstanding Achievement News Programming Tornado Aftermath, Director
Skills
Affiliations
Downhill snowskiing. 5K runner. Weight lifting. Peleton rider. I love to stay active.
Volunteer at the local animal shelter.
Take my therapy dog to assisted living facilities in the area.
Accomplishments
Chicago Midwest Emmy Nomination Outstanding Achievement for Individual Excellence Off Camera “HD By Candlelight: A Christmas Celebration” Directing Live
National Emmy Outstanding Achievement for News Programming Fire in the CTA, Director.
Chicago Midwest Emmy for Outstanding Achievement in News Programming: Tornado Aftermath, Director.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
DGA Director/Stage Manager
Fox32 WFLD Chicago Fox O & O
09.2018 - 06.2022
Server Manager
Nicks Fish House
11.2014 - 11.2017
DGA Newscast Director/Stage Manager
NBC 5 News Chicago
05.2013 - 02.2017
DGA Director/Assistant Director/ Stage Manager
CBS2 Chicago Channel2 CBS O & O
12.2003 - 10.2024
Server
Hyatt Regency Mccormick Place
07.2003 - 11.2006
Director/Assistant Director/Stage Manager
WGN-TV Channel9
02.1998 - 12.2003
Food and Beverage Server
Dingus Mcgee's Roadhouse
01.1994 - 06.1997
Associate of Arts - Telecommunications
Indiana University Bloomington
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