"Senior Managing Editor, Wake Forest Magazine"

Job Description Summary

Develops the content, delivery, and marketing of Wake Forest Magazine (WFM) in print and online. Expands the concept of the Magazine to incorporate a multi-media approach to content that is personalized and delivered through print, web, social media and a newsletter. Establishes partnership with the University Advancement storytelling apparatus (in collaboration with the Associate VP) to connect the storytelling power of the magazine with UA communication strategies.

Job Description

Essential Functions:

• Provides a strong journalistic approach to telling WF stories to key audiences, principally 90,000 alumni. Works with the Associate VP and Editor-in-Chief to set the editorial vision for the magazine in its many forms and oversees the content development process that best expresses the University’s mission and its alumni’s pursuits. This position is responsible for the story budget, the creative treatments, and the packaging of content in all media.
• Oversees the Managing Editor to set the editorial calendar and directs the production process, working closely with the writers, designers and printers to ensure the publication is executed on schedule.
• Supervises the staff of the magazine and its freelance designers.
• Generates strong story ideas and creative ways to tell those stories.
• Serves as principal contact and primary editor for writers, including freelance writers, for feature stories and profiles.
• Works with art director on all aspects of design and production; helps envision creative concepts for layouts and vibrant covers.
• Oversees the budget and expenses for the University’s flagship publication.
• Develops a robust online presence for the magazine to include RSS feeds and a social media connection to more directly reach different audiences. This includes Facebook and Instagram, which can promote the magazine’s print features and delivers important news or opportunities in between quarterly print magazines.
• Extends the digital footprint of the magazine to create a compelling and dynamic presence for the magazine brand which leads to increased engagement and readership.
• Connects with faculty, particularly in Journalism and occasionally oversees internships for students with the Magazine.
• Amplifies the University’s motto of Pro Humanitate.
• Attends and assists with University Advancement events as needed.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree with 8-10 years’ experience in writing, editing, proofreading, marketing, news media and publications management, preferably in an academic environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Supervisory experience required with preference given to candidates who have managed newsrooms or magazine teams.
• Superior communications, writing, editing, presentation, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of new communications technologies and changing media landscape.
• Creative thinker and team player, possessing integrity, discretion, excellent judgment and high-level leadership skills.
• Expertise with regional and national media outlets.
• Strong collaboration and consensus-building skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently; ability to set and meet deadlines.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with clients, colleagues and vendors.
• Ability to effectively motivate and manage creative staff.
• Exceptional interpersonal and management skills.
• Proficiency in desktop software and a variety of creative and media-based software/programs.
• Respect for the dignity and abilities of all people.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Wake Forest graduate.
• Journalism experience preferred.

Accountabilities:

• Responsible for own work and magazine staff.
• Manages budget.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Conditions:

Sedentary work primarily involving sitting/standing; communicating with others to exchange information; repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers; and assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned. No adverse environmental conditions expected.

Note: This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by the employee’s supervisor.

Additional Job Description

Time Type Requirement
Full time Note to Applicant:
This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.

In order to provide a safe and productive learning and living community, Wake Forest University conducts background investigations and drug screens for all final staff candidates being considered for employment.

Equal Opportunity Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified candidates to apply without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability and military or veteran status.

Accommodations for Applicants

If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact AskHR@wfu.edu or (336) 758-4700.