Meet the product specialist, newsroom solutions

David Cardinale, product specialist, newsroom solutions at CGI tells TVBEurope about the importance of keeping skills up to date in the rapidly evolving media industry

By Matthew Corrigan

Published: June 14, 2024

David Cardinale, product specialist, newsroom solutions at CGI tells TVBEurope about the importance of keeping skills up to date in the rapidly evolving media industry

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Talk us through an average day in your role David Cardinale, product specialist, newsroom solutions at CGI My role involves a diverse range of tasks that vary depending on the day's requirements. This includes conducting client demos to showcase our products and services, collaborating with the team to integrate innovations and AI into CGI OpenMedia, managing partnerships and their integration into OpenMedia, and delivering both client and internal training sessions to ensure everyone is up to date with program integrations and developments. Additionally, I attend trade shows like IBC where I need to prepare demo systems beforehand and during the show provide demonstrations. Lastly, I work on proof of concepts, planning, and implementing strategies to validate ideas and meet client and stakeholder needs.

How did you get started in the media industry? I started in the media industry in 2011 as a support technician and administrator for a prominent German broadcaster. However, in 2015, I transitioned to the health industry, where I worked in second and third-level support as an IT admin, as well as in business development and consulting. By 2018 my focus had changed to internal IT consulting with a specialisation in automation and system monitoring. In 2019 I decided to make a change and returned to the media industry, initially starting as a software engineer and later transitioning into product development. This journey has provided me with diverse experiences and skill sets that have shaped my career in the media industry.

What training did you have before entering the industry? Before entering the industry, I completed an apprenticeship as an IT administrator, gaining practical experience and foundational knowledge in the field. This was followed by extensive on-the-job training, allowing me to further develop my skills and expertise. Practical, on-the-job training combined with a good blend of qualifications is key in the IT industry. Looking to advance my knowledge, I studied for an engineering degree in Information Systems in Munich, which provided me with a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of the industry. Following that, I continuously updated and added to my qualifications to ensure that I stayed abreast of the latest developments in the industry. This included obtaining certifications such as SAFe 5 Product Manager and Product Owner, as well as a Cisco CCNA certification, ensuring that my skills remain relevant and up-to-date within the rapidly evolving industry landscape.

Why do you enjoy working in the industry? I enjoy working in the industry for many reasons. Firstly, I love the day-to-day challenges and tasks that I encounter in my job. Secondly, I find fulfilment in knowing that the work I do is relevant to the public, as it enables journalists and editorial teams to operate more efficiently and deliver higher-quality content. I also strive to make their lives easier by enhancing news teams' productivity and enriching the audience's experience with quality news content. Finally, I derive immense satisfaction from developing innovations, particularly when clients find these tools indispensable for their work. The media industry offers a diverse and stimulating environment.

What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a similar role to yours? For someone looking to explore a role similar to mine, I would tell them that they need to be open to continuous learning and training, as the landscape of media technology is constantly evolving and you cannot fall behind. You also need to have a passion for the media industry and an appreciation for software development and the products involved. Additionally, be open to making new contacts and networking within the industry. Don't be afraid to present in front of large audiences or conduct demonstrations, as these are often integral parts of the role. Lastly, ensure you have a solid knowledge of the products you will be working with, as this will greatly improve your effectiveness in the role.

LINK:	https://www.tvbeurope.com/business/people/meet-the-product-specialist-...
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