Executive Director, Investigative Reporters & Editors

Hiring Department

Journalism Enhancing Programs

Job Description

Investigative Reporters & Editors is looking for an executive director with the vision to lead the world’s largest organization supporting investigative and data journalism. The position involves overseeing a dynamic organization with more than 4,200 members internationally, 13 staff members and dozens of volunteer contributors, as well as serving as a staff member at the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.

For more than 50 years, IRE — a nonprofit organization — has led the journalism industry in supporting and training journalists and college students in techniques for investigative reporting and data analysis. The organization runs the world’s biggest conferences on investigative and data journalism – known respectively as IRE and NICAR. IRE provides training and resources for journalists in news organizations of all sizes, from rural U.S. communities to cities across the globe. Its website, ire.org, offers a growing portfolio of training tools, tipsheets, video tutorials and an extensive library of resources.

The right candidate will have experience in investigative journalism, management and fundraising, and an enthusiasm for evangelizing on behalf of investigative journalism and raising funds to support that mission. IRE is located in Columbia, Missouri, where candidates may have the option of moving or working remotely. This position may include teaching two classes per year at the School of Journalism. The position also involves considerable travel, both domestically and internationally. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Specific responsibilities include:

• Oversee the continuing evolution of IRE’s renowned training programs and national conferences, press freedom support efforts, publications and website, as well as overseeing the National Institute for Computer-Assisted Reporting
• Manage a staff of 13 employees, plus graduate and undergraduate student workers and volunteers
• Plan and supervise financial matters, including IRE’s $3 million budget and its $8.5 million endowment
• Raise funds, including seeking grants and donations
• Report to a 13-member elected Board of Directors
• Serve as the public face for the organization
• Hold a staff position at the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism

Shift

Full-time, Monday-Friday, 8-5, Central Time, with occasional weekend and evening hours.

Minimum Qualifications

A Master's degree in a relevant area and 10 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired OR a Bachelor's degree in a relevant area and 12 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with nonprofit organizations
• Experience working for a news outlet or news-supporting organization
• Solid credentials in journalism, with preference given for experience in investigative and/or data reporting or editing
• Managerial experience and navigating related opportunities and challenges
• Fundraising/development experience

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary Range: $145,000- $165,000 annually
Grade: E1B
University Title: Executive Director
Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

Applicants must submit a resume, a statement no longer than two pages of your vision for the organization – including your approach to fundraising with past experience cited – as well as relevant material or samples that demonstrate work in investigative or data journalism. The names and contact information for three to four references should also be provided.