Chief Public Discourse Editor

Chicago Sun-Times; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 145,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

Vacation

Holidays

Life insurance

Disability coverage

Retirement savings

Commuter benefits plan

Job summary

Chicago Public Media, home to WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times, seeks an experienced editor to lead public discourse. The Head of Public Discourse will define strategy, edit compelling commentary, develop staff columnists, and broaden Chicago perspectives across digital, audio and print, including newsletters and social formats.

You will help reporters build brands and authority while expanding audience reach and maintaining high standards of ethical journalism.

Qualifications

• Five+ years editing, commentary or journalism experience.
• Commitment to journalistic ethics and inclusive coverage.
• Excellent news judgment and editing skills.
• Strong understanding of Chicago and its communities.
• Ability to develop journalists’ voices across platforms.
• Experience working with diverse contributors and perspectives.
• Ability to shape audience-focused content across platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead the public discourse strategy reflecting Chicago's breadth.
• Recruit, commission and edit staff writers and contributors.
• Coach reporters to develop distinctive viewpoints and authority.
• Develop recognizable staff voices that earn reader trust.
• Collaborate with reporters to expand reach via columns, newsletters and social.
• Partner with newsroom, audience, visual and product teams on formats.
• Maintain high standards for accuracy, fairness and ethical journalism.

Skills

Editing experience

Journalism experience

News judgment

Chicago knowledge

Multiplatform editing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, digital media, public affairs, or a related field

Job description

Chicago Public Media, home to WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times, seeks an experienced editor to lead public discourse. The Head of Public Discourse will define strategy, edit compelling commentary, develop staff columnists, and broaden Chicago perspectives across digital, audio and print, including newsletters and social formats.

You will help reporters build brands and authority while expanding audience reach and maintaining high standards of ethical journalism.