Executive Director/Publisher Job at Corporation for New Jersey Local Media in Wh

Executive Director / Publisher Job Description

Corporation for New Jersey Local Media (CNJLM)

About CNJLM

The Corporation for New Jersey Local Media (CNJLM) is a nonprofit organization committed to creating engaged and informed communities by revitalizing local journalism and innovating for its future. CNJLM owns and operates the New Jersey Hills Media Group (NJHMG), a network of 13 weekly newspapers and digital platforms serving 51 towns across Essex, Hunterdon, Morris, and Somerset counties.

We believe strong local journalism strengthens civic life, fosters accountability, and builds lasting community connections. Our goal is for NJHMG to be the go-to source of authoritative, useful, and timely local information - while working collaboratively with statewide partners such as NJ Spotlight News and the Center for Cooperative Media.

Position Overview

The Executive Director / Publisher serves as CNJLM and NJHMG's chief executive officer, reporting directly to the Board of Directors. This leader holds full strategic and operational ownership for the organization's success, overseeing editorial excellence, financial health, digital transformation, community engagement, and organizational culture.

While accountable for revenue generation, donor relations, and strategic partnerships, the ED/Publisher may be supported by senior hires in key areas, such as a Development Director to lead major donor cultivation and an editorial leader to manage day-to-day newsroom operations.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership

• Serve as the chief executive and primary decision-maker for all operational, financial, editorial, and strategic matters.
• Translate CNJLM's mission and Board vision into clear goals, measurable objectives, and actionable plans.
• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration across all departments.

Editorial & Brand Stewardship

• Uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity, ethics, and community relevance.
• Ensure NJHMG's publications are the go-to source for trusted local information in the communities we serve.
• Support and empower editorial leadership in delivering impactful, high-quality content across platforms.

Digital Transformation & Innovation

• Lead CNJLM's evolution into a modern, audience-centered, multi-platform media company.
• Champion innovation in content, technology, audience engagement, and new revenue models,

Financial & Business Management

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and fiscal management to ensure sustainability and growth.
• Diversify revenue through advertising, subscriptions, sponsorships, philanthropy, and partnerships.
• Anticipate financial challenges and act decisively to address them.

Fundraising & Development Oversight

• Maintain ultimate responsibility for fundraising goals and donor engagement strategies.
• Build and maintain relationships with major donors, foundations, and sponsors.
• Collaborate with (and, if applicable, hire and manage) a Development Director to lead donor cultivation and stewardship.

Community & External Relations

• Serve as CNJLM's primary ambassador to the community, donors, partners, and the media industry.
• Be highly visible and actively engaged in the communities we serve, building trust and community.

Board Partnership & Governance

• Work closely with the Board to ensure alignment on strategy and performance.
• Provide transparent reporting and informed recommendations to the Board.

Qualifications

Required

• Proven executive leadership experience (CEO, Publisher, Executive Director, or equivalent senior role).
• Strong track record in organizational management, strategic planning, and operational execution.
• Experience in journalism, media, or a closely related mission-driven industry.
• Demonstrated success in revenue growth through multiple channels.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills.

Preferred

• Experience leading digital transformation in a media organization.
• Familiarity with nonprofit governance and Board relations.
• Established network in journalism, philanthropy, and/or community leadership in New Jersey.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation will be competitive and based on the skills, experience, and strengths of the leader we hire. CNJLM offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health and dental insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Paid time off and holidays

To Apply

Please assemble a resume, cover letter, and three professional references. In your cover letter, tell us how your experience and vision align with CNJLM's mission and this role. Please submit your application here.

Equal Employment Opportunity

CNJLM is an equal opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Salary/Compensation: $140,000 - $150,000 per year

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