Managing Editor / EditorThe River RegisterA Nelson Media Company Newspaper

Nelson Media Company is seeking a driven, community-focused Managing Editor / Editor to lead editorial coverage for The River Register, a newly rebranded newspaper proudly serving Cerro Gordo and Floyd counties.

The River Register delivers trusted local news throughout Mason City, Nora Springs, Rockford, Rudd, Marble Rock, and surrounding communities. As we continue to expand our coverage and invest in the future of local journalism, we're looking for an exceptional journalist to help shape one of North Iowa's fastest-growing local news organizations.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who believes local journalism matters and enjoys being at the center of the communities they serve. The ideal candidate is a strong writer, storyteller, relationship builder, and organizer who takes pride in producing journalism that informs, connects, and celebrates local communities.

As Managing Editor, you will oversee the newspaper's editorial direction while working alongside staff writers, photographers, office managers, and Nelson Media Company leadership to produce exceptional print and digital journalism each week.

This is an opportunity to become one of the trusted voices of Cerro Gordo and Floyd counties while helping build the next chapter of an exciting community newspaper.

What You'll Do

Lead and manage editorial coverage for The River Register
Attend and cover city council meetings, county board meetings, school board meetings, and other public meetings
Write compelling news stories, feature stories, enterprise reporting, community profiles, and breaking news
Cover local government, education, business, public safety, nonprofits, community events, and economic development
Build strong relationships with community leaders, businesses, schools, organizations, and residents throughout Cerro Gordo and Floyd counties
Coordinate with staff writers, photographers, columnists, and freelance contributors
Work closely with production staff to ensure deadlines are consistently met
Develop original story ideas that go beyond meeting coverage and showcase the people, businesses, history, and success stories that make North Iowa unique
Ensure all content meets AP Style and Nelson Media Company's editorial standards
Help grow readership through print, digital platforms, newsletters, social media, and future multimedia initiatives
Capture photographs and assist with multimedia storytelling as needed

What We're Looking For

Previous newspaper, journalism, communications, or editorial experience preferred
Exceptional writing, editing, interviewing, and organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills
Self-motivated, dependable, and highly organized
Comfortable attending evening meetings and community events
Photography experience is a plus
Knowledge of AP Style preferred
A genuine passion for local journalism and community storytelling

About The River Register

The River Register is a newly rebranded community newspaper published by Nelson Media Company. The newspaper is committed to delivering trusted local news throughout Cerro Gordo and Floyd counties, with coverage that informs residents, celebrates communities, and holds local institutions accountable.

By combining outstanding print journalism with a growing digital presence, The River Register is investing in the future of community news while remaining committed to the values that have made hometown newspapers an essential part of community life.

About Nelson Media Company

Nelson Media Company owns and operates community newspapers throughout Iowa and Wisconsin while continuing to invest in the future of local journalism through print, digital, video, and multimedia storytelling.

Our mission is to produce trusted journalism that strengthens communities, informs readers, and tells the stories that matter most.

Why Join The River Register?

This is more than an editor position.

It's an opportunity to lead one of North Iowa's newest and most exciting community news organizations. You'll have the ability to build meaningful relationships, tell stories that make a difference, and help shape the future of local journalism across Cerro Gordo and Floyd counties.

If you're passionate about community journalism and ready to make a lasting impact, we'd love to hear from you.

To Apply

Please send your resume, references, and writing samples to:

Chris Nelson
President & CEO
Nelson Media Company

Email: cnelson@nelsonmediacompany.com

Pay: $14.00 - $18.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

The River Register

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