Injustice Watch is seeking an Editor in Chief to lead our nonprofit newsroom. The ideal candidate is an experienced manager and editor with a track record of successful investigative work who can demonstrate an understanding of the way courts impact local communities. The Editor in Chief will forge a strategy for scrutinizing the Cook County court system, provide high-level direction and hands-on supervision to the editorial team, and work across departments to maintain a standard of excellence in our journalism that aligns with the organization’s mission.
Our Editor in Chief will:
Lead the editorial team in developing and executing a clear editorial vision and strategy for investigative and public-service projects on issues of equity and justice in the court system.
Edit stories, delegate responsibilities, and oversee all Injustice Watch projects to the highest journalistic standards.
Build and maintain collaborative and strategic partnerships with other newsrooms to raise the visibility of our work.
Direct all newsroom operations, including developing a newsroom structure, supervising editorial team members; and providing budget oversight.
Lead hiring for our editorial team, ensuring that our newsroom staff reflects the diversity of Chicago and the communities we cover.
Represent Injustice Watch by appearing at public forums, conferences, and other events and communicate with stakeholders, as needed.
Foster and maintain an equitable, collaborative, and inclusive newsroom culture.
We’re looking for someone who:
Has at least five years of newsroom management experience and a track record of producing and editing impactful, community-centered journalism.
Has extensive experience producing, editing, or overseeing large-scale investigative projects.
Has a strong vision for journalism that is responsive to the people and communities most affected by the issues we cover.
Is committed to building a caring work environment and culture by respectfully providing and accepting feedback, encouraging work-life balance, and providing steady and consistent mentorship.
While nothing below is a requirement, it’s a plus if you:
Are knowledgeable about Chicagoland history, politics, institutions, and communities.
Have experience covering the Cook County Circuit Court or other state court systems.
Understand the complexities and challenges of digital security and source protection and can enforce best practices.
Reports to: Executive Director
Directly supervises: Managing Editor; responsible for developing supervision structure for newsroom
Also works closely with: Audience Director, Development Director, and Operations Director