Founding Managing Editor

The Weston Observer, a newly-formed non-profit 501(c)(3) news organization, is seeking to hire a full-time founding Managing Editor to begin work in May, 2025 so we can begin publication in August. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Managing Editor will have a unique opportunity to set the direction of this new local newspaper and website to serve Weston, MA. The preferred candidate will be comfortable in a start-up environment, will set the standard for journalistic excellence and build a capable and dedicated team from scratch.This leader of the news organization must develop a robust presence in the community, act as our spokesperson and be able to remain dispassionate, analytical, and objective regardless of circumstances.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects from start-up to the weekly production of The Weston Observer, an 8-12 page printed newspaper and accompanying online website and newsletter.
• Hire, supervise, develop and evaluate staff members.
• Direct and edit all content for print and online publication.Content will include town government, politics, schools, housing, economic development, environment and health, sports, arts and entertainment, local institutions and everyday Weston residents and businesses.
• Plan, assign and execute timely and comprehensive coverage of local news using staff, freelancers, interns and volunteers to meet journalistic standards and deadlines.
• Work with production staff to compile and approve print, web and newsletter versions.
• Oversee the sales of advertising and sponsorships necessary to enable the free distribution of the paper to over 4000 households in Weston.
• Work within the budget set by the Board of Directors.Participate in and report to meetings of the Board of Directors as requested.

Specific experience required:

• Demonstrated excellence in reporting, writing, and editing articles and in-depth, extensive features.Unfailing dedication to and success in meeting deadlines.Solid news judgment.
• At least three to five years of management experience at a news publication.
• A collaborative leadership style, comfort in multitasking and working under pressure.
• Demonstrated proficiency in digital storytelling (video, text, audio)

Basic Qualifications

●3-5 years of increasing responsibility for reporting, writing, and editing a daily or weekly newspaper

●In-person management of an editorial staff, including personnel hiring, supervision, and evaluation.

●Availability to work full time onsite.Residence in the greater Boston metro area within commuting distance to Weston required.

●Availability for news reporting, coverage, and editing outside regular Monday-Friday business hours as needed.

Technology Skills

●Knowledge of Word, WordPress, Google Docs, InDesign and related editorial, design and content management software.

Compensation and Benefits

●Compensation is up to $85,000 per year, depending upon experience - plus competitive benefits including paid time off, and a contribution to health insurance.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

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, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.The Weston Observer is committed to racial equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging and encourages members of underrepresented communities to apply.

To apply. Please email your resume and a cover letter to westonobserver@gmail.com.In your cover letter tell us about yourself, your salary requirements, and why you are perfect for this job.At the bottom of the cover letter, please include links to stories you have edited and written, explaining your role in each story.Please place Managing Editor Job in the subject line of the email.

Weston News, Inc. is a nonprofit media startup planning to begin publication in August, 2025.  We are currently successfully fundraising for start-up money.