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News Director

KUNM, Billings, Montana, us, 59107

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Overview Montana State University Billings (MSUB) and Yellowstone Public Radio (YPR) are seeking a News Director to lead YPR’s editorial direction, news production, and digital presence. Under the direction of the General Manager, the News Director will establish short- and long-term goals for news, maintain editorial integrity, manage daily planning and editing of stories, oversee a team of reporters and freelancers, coordinate with NPR, and support content-sharing opportunities with other stations. The position requires on-air hosting backup and strong leadership in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Develop, create, and implement YPR’s news reporting strategies and goals.

Manage the development, production, and editing of regional news programming for broadcast and digital platforms.

Direct a team of news reporters and freelance content providers; plan specials and series; supervise coverage of statewide elections and state legislative sessions.

Schedule and implement news content for broadcast and digital platforms; oversee social media contributions.

Supervise news department employees, student workers, and interns; assign stories; supervise training and evaluate performance.

Oversee equipment purchases related to news reporting and ensure editorial integrity and professionalism.

Maintain editorial standards; direct factual reporting; supervise corrections and retractions as needed.

Coordinate with NPR; share content with Montana Public Radio; explore NPR best practices and collaboration opportunities.

Direct on-air news hosts; provide coaching and act as substitute host when necessary.

Participate in additional duties as assigned; engage in on-air fundraising weeks and public appearances.

Adhere to essential duties plan; be on-call and work irregular hours as circumstances dictate.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Journalism or a related field.

At least five (5) years of professional broadcast experience, preferably in public media.

Supervisory/leadership experience or demonstrated leadership skills.

Ability to work within a budget and contribute to budgeting discussions.

Strong, clear communication skills including writing and editing.

Excellent organizational skills and interpersonal abilities.

Decision-making and problem-solving skills; ability to work under pressure.

Ability to develop content for broadcast and for web and social media.

Experience in reporting including interviews, on-air, and breaking news.

Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supervising staff within a media field.

Experience working in public radio/media.

Experience with live radio operation.

Duties and Responsibilities (continued)

Develops, creates, and implements YPR’s news reporting strategies and goals; manages news programming and direction.

Oversees editorial integrity, reporting accuracy, and publishing guidelines; coordinates with listeners and handles corrections.

Oversees day-to-day meetings, source development, fact-checking, and transitions from broadcast to digital formats; coordinates social media and cross-station sharing.

Represents YPR in communications with NPR; seeks opportunities for awards and partnerships.

Directs on-air hosts and provides coaching; serves as substitute host when needed.

Performs other duties as assigned and participates in fundraising weeks and public appearances.

This position is essential and high priority; must be on-call and work irregular hours as necessary.

Benefits and Additional Information

Reasonable accommodations available to perform essential duties.

Mandatory reporting obligations for Title IX and related policies.

Campus safety information and annual security report available on the MSUB Police website.

This institution is an equal opportunity employer.

Background checks are required prior to employment offers.

This position is not eligible for sponsorship.

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