Editor in Chief Job at PCMA Greater Midwest Chapter in Chicago

Position Summary

The Editor in Chief is a business leader responsible for shaping the editorial direction, content strategy, strategic vision, and overall business success of Convene. The leader will oversee the editorial process for the publication of Convene magazine, on-site annual meeting dailies, e-newsletters, research pieces, associated online content, and News Junkie.

The Editor in Chief is a dynamic leader who has a passion for storytelling, an understanding of industry trends and a proven track record of driving business growth. The leader is highly creative and possesses expert level skills sets in writing, editing of articles and columns that are error free and require little to no proofing.

This role is also accountable for managing the business of Convene including business strategies, business planning, and execution of business plans for growth and engagement of readership. The leader is responsible for developing a collaborative environment with their team and encouraging exploration of various topics of interest to the Convene audience, as well as to foster their curiosity and help expand their resources. They must ensure company policies are followed properly. The editor in chief often acts as an advisor to the writers /authors, advising and guiding them on various topics they write on and line editing their work.

Business Management

• Develop and implement a comprehensive business strategy for Convene, focusing on audience engagement (print/digital), market expansion and revenue growth.
• Work closely with CBO and VP of Business Development on revenue-generating issues, cost-management, and direction of the magazine.
• Management of all expenses related to Convene (print/digital) and collaborate with business development leaders to ensure maximum monetization and margin.
• Manage all costs related to production of magazine including printer, paper broker, and postage.
• Manage all costs related to outsource/inhouse editorial and design.
• Monitor industry trends and competitive landscape to stay ahead of the competition.
• Inspire a cross-functional and collaborative environment amongst teams to contribute content, ideas, and stories.
• Collaborate with marketing to build and enhance the Convene brand, ensuring consistency across all platforms and touchpoints.
• Collaborate with marketing to develop and implement strategies to grow and engage Convene's audience, both online and offline.
• Utilize analytics and feedback to continuously refine and optimize content and business strategies.

Editorial Management

• Develop and implement content strategy for all publications including print and digital Convene, newsletters, and podcasts.
• Develop and execute a compelling editorial vision that aligns and resonates with Convene's target audience appeal and needs.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to editorial and business teams to maximize their potential.
• Oversee the creation of engaging and relevant content across print and digital platforms.
• Collaborate with a team of writers/editors, and contributors to ensure the highest editorial standards.
• Manage team of editors on staff, and oversee/assign articles to freelance writers.
• Ensure integrity of articles; work is original and not copied.
• Work closely with design firm on the art and layout of each issue.
• Work in tandem with production coordinator.
• Collaborate with events and education teams on session content for PCMA events; moderate sessions and webinars as needed.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to manage multiple priorities, direct others, deliver projects on schedule and on budget.
• Ability to engage business leaders on strategy and develop business plans to move business forward.
• Ability to develop and manage a budget and execute business priorities within budget.
• Ability to write compelling and engaging stories efficiently under pressure and on deadline.
• Ability to generate and foster ideas for content amongst staff, industry leaders and synthesize into compelling stories.
• Ability to edit and rewrite articles from internal sources and outside contributors.
• Ability to edit on-staff articles and mentor editors.
• Ability to manage research initiatives, including an annual meetings market survey, quarterly e-surveys, and an annual industry forecast.
• Must possess strong organizational skills and show ability to address several issues simultaneously.
• Knowledge of AP Style.

Minimum Qualifications

• B.A. in English or Journalism
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in publishing-related responsibilities and management
• Experience leading editorial teams.
• Strong leader who possesses exceptional writing and research skills.
• Proficient in Word, Excel, Adobe InDesign programs
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Expert listening skills and ability to interact with people effectively.
• Organized with high attention to detail.

Physical Requirements And Environmental Conditions

• Ability to perform work utilizing a computer for extended periods of time.
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time in performing the work.
• Ability to grasp objects utilizing the fingers (fine motor manipulation).
• Ability to travel by air or ground transportation as required in performing the work.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.