Managing Editor - Southern Minnesota Regional Publications

Location: Upper Midwest
Salary: $60,000 annually + bonus based on subscriber growth

Reports to: Publisher/Editorial Director

Position Overview

We're seeking a dynamic Managing Editor to lead our newsroom into the digital future while maintaining our commitment to exceptional community journalism. This role combines traditional editorial excellence with digital innovation, audience engagement, and multi-platform storytelling across our nine Southern Minnesota publications.

The ideal candidate will be a strategic leader who understands both the fundamentals of quality journalism and the evolving digital landscape that connects news organizations with modern audiences.

Key Responsibilities

Editorial Leadership & Content Strategy

Edit and enhance stories, columns, and community content across all platforms with focus on digital-first publishing
Develop and implement content strategies that serve both print and digital audiences
Oversee special section development and production, with opportunity for freelance collaboration
Ensure editorial standards and journalistic integrity across all publications and platforms

Digital Innovation & Audience Development

Lead digital content strategy including social media, newsletters, and website optimization
Develop audience engagement initiatives to grow readership and community connection
Implement SEO best practices and analytics-driven content decisions
Explore emerging digital storytelling formats (video, podcasts, interactive content)
Monitor audience metrics and adapt content strategy based on performance data

Team Leadership & Development

Supervise and mentor editorial team of 12+ staff members:
- 3 Assistant Editors
- 3 Sports Reporters
- 5 News Reporters
- 1 Community Desk Assistant
- 10+ Stringers/Contributors
Provide coaching and professional development focused on digital skills and modern journalism practices
Foster collaborative newsroom culture that embraces innovation while respecting community journalism values

Operations & Community Engagement

Collaborate with pagination team on print layout while prioritizing digital content flow
Manage day-to-day community communications across multiple channels
Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, sources, and readers
Coordinate coverage across nine publications to maximize efficiency and impact
Ensure timely, accurate reporting that serves local communities

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, or related field
5+ years of editorial experience with leadership responsibilities
Strong editing skills with attention to detail and AP style proficiency
Demonstrated experience with digital publishing platforms and content management systems
Understanding of social media strategy and audience engagement
Experience managing teams and developing staff
Knowledge of media law, ethics, and journalistic standards

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with SEO, analytics tools (Google Analytics, social media insights)
Video editing and multimedia storytelling capabilities
Newsletter and email marketing experience
Background in community journalism or regional publications
Project management experience with special publications
Familiarity with modern newsroom workflow tools

What We Offer

Competitive salary of $60,000
Opportunity to shape the digital future of established community publications
Leadership role with significant editorial autonomy
Collaborative work environment with experienced team
Chance to make meaningful impact in Southern Minnesota communities

Application Requirements

Please submit:

Cover letter explaining your vision for community journalism in the digital age
Resume highlighting relevant editorial and leadership experience
Three professional references
Portfolio of editing work and any digital initiatives you've led

We're looking for someone who shares our commitment to serving local communities while embracing the tools and strategies that will ensure our long-term success in the evolving media landscape.

Salary/Compensation: $60,000 per year plus commission

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