Editor in Chief

Editor in Chief

Investigate Midwest is a nonprofit, remote newsroom based in Champaign, Illinois, covering big agribusinesses in the Midwest and the impact these companies have locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. We serve the public interest by exposing dangerous and costly practices of influential agricultural corporations and institutions through data-driven investigative journalism. Our award-winning deep investigative and enterprise reporting strives to better connect the public and other journalists with the issues driven by Big Ag – including food, policy, energy, climate and labor issues. Our staff produces data visualizations, maps and graphics in addition to online stories.

The editor in chief will be responsible for the day-to-day activity of the newsroom, supervising and managing all reporters and other editorial staff members. The EIC will keep the Executive Director informed of all work, plans, activities and any concerns/issues that arise within the newsroom. The editor in chief will be responsible for the content and ensuring all expectations are met in regard to grants, goals and long-term growth.

Competencies include:

• Deep background in investigative journalism
• Baseline to medium proficiency working with data 
• An engaged journalism mindset that is focused on meeting information needs
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to train and encourage team members
• Effective communication and strong interpersonal and coaching skills
• Deep knowledge and use of AP Style; knowledge and use of Microsoft Outlook, Gmail, Zoom, Trello, Slack

Desired qualifications include:

• Some familiarity with the agriculture industry — food supply, commercial animal feeding operations, agribusiness, labor, policy, etc.
• Familiarity working with rural communities
• Strong coaching skills from entry-level to more senior newsroom staff/contractors

Experience:

Minimum 7 years of investigative journalism

Minimum 4 years coaching and editing experience

Minimum 4 years managing projects and teams strongly

This position is exempt and reports to the executive director. Base salary range is $80,000-$95,000 plus available health benefits. Base salary depends on transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. Medical, dental and vision benefits and four weeks paid time off, plus all federal holidays, the week of Thanksgiving and the last two weeks of the year are provided.

To apply: Please send a resume, a 1-page cover letter, 3 work samples, and at least 3 references and their contact information to Executive Director Erin Orr at [email protected]. No phone calls, please.

Deadlines: Application materials are due by end of the business day, 5 p.m. central time, June 24.

Investigate Midwest is an equal employment opportunity employer and we seek to increase diversity in our own operation and in the news media. We encourage individuals from communities traditionally underrepresented in this field to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin. Investigate Midwest considers equivalent combinations of experience and education for certain jobs. All candidates who believe they possess equivalent experience and education are encouraged to apply.