Panel operators usually do not have on-air speaking roles, and focus only on presenting the program to air technically.
People who operate the panel as well as having a speaking role on a show are often known as anchors.
Most music announcers these days operate the panel as well as presenting their shift to air.
[1] Panel operators are usually responsible for (but not limited to) the following duties:[2] Panel operators need to be technically able, good at working under pressure and dealing with talent egos, conscious of time constraints and able to think quickly when something goes wrong.
The entire on-air presentation of the show is reliant upon their ability.