The Philadelphia Inquirer is a public benefit corporation owned by the nonprofit Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Together, we're at the center of a critical mission to create a lasting future for ambitious, engaging, and useful local journalism. We're doing this, in part, by deepening our connection with the communities we serve. Our integrated digital and print platforms are the Philadelphia region's largest media network. We're passionate about building a sustainable model for indispensable local journalism, and we take pride in finding diverse, dynamic, and talented individuals to help push our team forward.
The News Desk seeks an editor for the Politics & Governing desk. We're searching for a strong leader to guide a team of reporters that distinguished itself with unparalleled 2020 coverage and intends to keep the momentum flowing as the region and state remain must-watch political arenas, with critical races looming for governor, Congress, and Philadelphia mayor. Beyond their focus on campaigns and elections, its reporters serve as watchdogs on spending, legislative and policy decisions by leaders and governments at all levels, from City Hall to our relevant counties, from Harrisburg and Trenton to Washington, D.C.
This is a position for an experienced editor with a keen interest in and aptitude for the subject matter, digital-first mindset and experience; the skills to effectively manage and edit a crew of talented journalists as they toggle between daily news of significance, muscular enterprise, and analysis and aggregation; and a collaborative nature to work seamlessly with colleagues across the news desk and the broader newsroom.
What You'll Do
- Direct and manage the largest team of reporters on the news desk, helping them unearth and land scoops and memorable stories that will
resonate across and beyond our region - Work with the Assistant Managing Editor for News and other newsroom leaders to define or refine the strategic vision and priorities for
the team, with a strong emphasis on digital growth and digital engagement - Coordinate breaking news coverage to ensure The Inquirer remains the dominant and most dependable outlet for relevant political news,
particularly with increased focus and competition on Pennsylvania as one of the most important swing states - Identify opportunities to innovate and explore new storytelling formats and methods to distinguish and share our journalism
- Collaborate with other editors across the News Desk and newsroom to ensure smart coverage of the people, events and issues that
impact the region
Who We're Looking For
- An editor with a track record of excellence, someone who knows how and when to sharpen a story's focus, polish a lede or leave copy untouched
- A journalist who has or strives to develop a deep knowledge and appreciation of Philadelphia and the region, both its past and where it's headed
- A digital-savvy manager who understands and embraces our need to serve audiences across all our platforms, and identify and engage the
audiences we aren't yet reaching - A leader who recognizes and plays to the strengths of their staff, while giving them the guidance and opportunities to succeed and grow
- A manager with a vision for how all the parts best fit together to maximize coverage of fast-moving stories with many angles
* We know not everyone reading this will fit exactly what we've described. We encourage everyone to apply who shares our passion for indispensable journalism and our drive to create a sustainable business model to support it. As an equal opportunity employer, The Inquirer is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture, and we especially encourage members of underrepresented communities to submit an application, including women, people of color, LGBTQ people, and people with special needs*
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Other details
- Pay Type Salary
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What We Do
Since 1829, The Philadelphia Inquirer has been “asking on behalf of the people” by providing essential journalism for the diverse communities of the Philadelphia region. The Inquirer, a for-profit public benefit corporation owned by the non-profit Lenfest Institute, produces Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism that changes lives and leads to lasting reforms. Its multiple brand platforms — including newspapers, Inquirer.com, e-Editions, apps, newsletters, and live events — reach a growing audience of more than 10 million people a month.
“In a free state, there should always be an inquirer asking on behalf of the people: Why? Why? Why?” — John Norvell, Inquirer co-founder
