Editor in Chief

Job Description

Editor in Chief


 

The Editor in Chief is responsible for the University of Pittsburgh's flagship magazine, Pitt Magazine. While traditionally serving a target audience of alumni, the magazine also serves as an important communications vehicle for faculty, staff and key stakeholders. This experienced editor will oversee the magazine's editorial process from conception to publication with the highest standards of accuracy and quality, be a collaborative leader of the magazine's staff, and build strong relationships within University Communications and Marketing (UCM) as well as University partners and external vendors.

The editor in chief will:

• Provide a timely and strategic vision for each issue's content, writing and design while maintaining the highest standards of production and quality control.
• Produce stories that reflect and advance the University of Pittsburgh's reputation as one of the top public universities in the nation and that cover content areas and stories aligned to institutional priorities.
• Provide meaningful and productive edits to staff and freelancers, whether in a 2,500-word cover feature or a 100-word brief.
• Maintain and build relationships with University community partners and other stakeholders to expand the magazine's reach and prestige.
• Establish realistic production schedules, ensure deadlines are met and oversee publication in print and online.
• Supervise the magazine's review and production process, including text reviews, proofreading, fact-checking, layout reviews, administrative approvals, prepress, printing, posting, distribution and billing of each issue.
• Establish goals and KPIs for the magazine and measure its success.
• Work closely with the Creative Director to continue refining the magazine's recent print redesign and collaborate with UCM's web team to continue updating Pitt Magazine's website.
• Serve as an ambassador to key constituent communities, including alumni, through innovative outreach efforts.
• Supervise and mentor staff through hiring, assigning and editing work; conduct performance reviews, manage work schedules and approve timecards; provide professional development opportunities and create an inclusive, welcoming environment.
• Report to the Senior Director, Content Strategy; work together to refine and update editorial processes to follow industry best practices and address the evolving needs of the office and team.
• Occasionally edit other high-priority projects across the office.

The editor in chief leads a team that:

• Pitches, writes and edits compelling stories about the University of Pittsburgh and its people in a narrative nonfiction style that continues the magazine's award-winning tradition.
• Plans and manages the creation and publication of each issue of Pitt Magazine, both in print and online.
• Balances storytelling, structure, voice and brand values with accuracy and style.
• Identifies and manages freelancers capable of producing seasoned work (writing, photography or other content) that requires minimal editing.

The Office of University Communications and Marketing (UCM) builds on the University's mission of creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment.

UCM is committed to hiring and retaining individuals of all identities and is a place where everyone is heard and appreciated. Addressing inequalities in our practice and in our workspace is a key focus.

We are open to ideas, storytelling and design that feature people of all backgrounds, as well as sharing experiences and perspectives from all of our staff. We seek to create a welcoming and expansive environment where we are learning how to strengthen representation through professional development and inclusive thought leadership.

All are welcome at the Office of University Communications and Marketing.

 

Job Summary

Directs and manages a print magazine, online e-magazine, social media presence, and podcasts providing targeted and varied content about the University and its people. Facilitates and oversees the creation of each magazine issue from vision to delivery; assigns relevant stories and supervises staff. Supervises and approves the magazine’s review and production process and prepares pre-press through billing of each issue. Advances the magazine's award-winning style by writing thoughtful and engaging narrative nonfiction pieces.

Essential Functions

The ideal candidate has:

• At least 5 years of advanced editorial experience and skills, preferably at an academic, corporate, regional or commercial magazine.
• Extensive editing experience for print and digital products, preferably in AP Style.
• Successfully managed a collaborative team and helped employees grow as professionals.
• A can-do, positive attitude with the ability to inspire and lead teams.
• Excellent project management skills, including collaborative communication and adherence to deadline and budget. Experience with Monday.com is a plus.
• Strong judgement and ability to thrive in ambiguity .
• Ability to manage multiple, competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A working knowledge of InDesign and Drupal.

Physical Effort

Duties are primarily sedentary. Must be able to use a computer at a desk or similar workstation, and travel to on-campus meeting as needed.

 

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

 

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Editor in Chief

Job Family: Communications & Marketing

Job Sub Family: Editing

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 3

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Work Arrangement: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications

Relocation_Offered: Yes

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable

Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter, Writing Sample

Optional Documents: Not Applicable


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