Managing Editor

Description:

Job Summary 

The Managing Editor at the Columbia Basin Herald, part of Hagadone Media Group, leads daily publishing operations across print, digital, and other media platforms. Reporting to the Publisher, the Managing Editor oversees writers, editors, and freelancers, ensuring the production of high-quality, engaging content that meets audience and organizational goals. This role combines creativity with operational leadership, including generating story ideas, guiding content from concept to publication, maintaining editorial standards, and ensuring legal and ethical compliance. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills are essential for success in this position. 

Position Duties & Responsibilities 

• Plan and manage daily editorial operations, including budgeting, resource allocation, and scheduling  

• Hire, train, mentor, and supervise writers, editors, and freelancers, providing feedback to maintain high performance  

• Collaborate with the Publisher to develop content strategy, topics, and overall editorial direction  

• Coordinate editorial schedules, assignments, and meetings for writers, photographers, and designers to ensure deadlines are met  

• Review, edit, proofread, and refine content for grammar, style, accuracy, clarity, and compliance with legal and organizational standards  

• Ensure all digital content follows ADA accessibility practices, including HTML tagging, alt text, and clear navigation  

• Oversee editorial page operations, including writing editorials, reviewing guest submissions, and handling letters to the editor  

• Motivate staff to deliver high-quality, engaging content aligned with organizational goals  

• Resolve operational or content-related issues efficiently  

• Represent the company or Publisher at public events and community engagements 

• Maintain editorial quality and consistency across all media platforms 

Qualifications 

• Proven experience as a Managing Editor or in a relevant editorial leadership role  

• Exceptional copywriting, editing, and proofreading skills  

• Solid understanding and application of AP style  

• Proficiency in English  

• Working knowledge of digital platforms, including WordPress and SEO concepts  

• Strong planning, coordination, and organizational abilities  

• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills  

• Attention to detail, reliability, and efficiency under tight deadlines  

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism or a related field, or equivalent experience  

• Ability to operate computers and office equipment for extended periods  

• Ability to travel locally for stories, community events, and company business  

• Capability to work both indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions 

Preferred Attributes 

• Creative mindset with the ability to generate innovative story ideas  

• Strong commitment to professional development of staff  

• Experience managing multi-platform media operations  

• Adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced, dynamic environment 

Work Schedule 

The Managing Editor must be adaptable to irregular hours, as the role demands delivering results in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. This may include evening or night work, as well as occasional weekends and public holidays. 

Physical Demands 

• Ability to work extended hours, evenings, weekends, or holidays as news coverage requires. 

• Ability to sit for extended periods while using a computer and other office equipment. 

• Frequent use of computers, telephones, and standard office technology. 

• Ability to occasionally travel within the coverage area to attend meetings, community events, or breaking news situations. 

• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and through digital communication platforms. 

• • Duties involve extended periods of sitting and computer use, as well as standing, walking, driving, and traveling throughout the coverage area to attend meetings, events, and breaking news assignments.  

  • Regular field reporting requires prolonged walking, standing, and mobility throughout the coverage area which are essential functions of this position.  

  • The role also requires the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, navigate uneven terrain when necessary, and respond to breaking news outside of regular business hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as newsroom needs dictate. 

   

  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. 

   

  Benefits 

  • Competitive pay commensurate with experience and talent. 

  • Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. 

   

  Disclaimer: I understand that this job description is not intended to be all-inclusive and may evolve with the Hagadone Media Group's changing needs. This position may be required to perform additional duties outside of those listed here.