Bauer Media Audio is opening a software development hub in Manchester to build systems that will support its nine markets across Europe.
The new in-house team will develop the platforms used by Bauer’s commercial and content teams, with tools designed to simplify workflows and allow for local market customisation.
By bringing software development into the business, Bauer Media Audio says it will have greater control over how new products are built and deployed, while improving scalability and speeding up innovation.
Manchester was chosen because of its strong pool of technology talent and its proximity to Bauer’s existing teams, including Rayo and cloud enablement. The company has also recently invested in refurbished offices in the city.
Simon Myciunka, President of Bauer Media Audio and Chief Executive of Bauer Media Audio UK, said: “Our investment in Manchester is a pivotal step in how we build the future of Bauer Media Audio.”
He said the new hub would provide teams in all nine markets with “smarter, more innovative and connected tools”.
Chief Technology Officer David Andrande said the investment would bring critical digital capabilities in-house, including automation and real-time insight across broadcast and digital audio.
Recruitment is now underway for the new roles.
The move follows Bauer Media Audio’s recent upgrade to its European digital technology infrastructure, including the creation of a Digital Services Technology Support Team in Portugal.