Lead the editorial strategy and content development for a specialized print newspaper serving U.S. municipal clerks, emphasizing thoughtful reporting, writing, and collaboration with design and production teams to deliver a valuable, professional publication.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop the overall concept and theme for the first issue, including a full table of contents with features, departments, and recurring columns
- Define voice, tone guidelines, and editorial standards
- Identify and pursue interview sources such as clerks, administrators, and election staff
- Create an editorial structure that ensures cohesive flow and momentum
- Write feature stories based on reporting or interviews
- Produce opinion pieces and practical recurring content like tips and checklists
- Conduct interviews and integrate insights into engaging narratives
- Collaborate with stakeholders to maintain accuracy and editorial integrity
- Align content with design elements for optimal layout and readability
- Edit copy during production, manage print vendor coordination, and oversee proofing and final approval
Qualifications
- Expertise in thematic planning, story structure, and editorial progression
- Ability to generate relevant story ideas based on municipal workflows
- Proficiency in writing clear, confident, non-promotional prose
- Skill in balancing depth with accessibility for time-constrained readers
- Experience writing various formats including features, columns, and service pieces
- Knowledge of print-specific writing techniques like headlines, sidebars, and pacing
- Strong collaboration skills with designers and printers
- Attention to detail in accuracy, credibility, and clarity