Executive Editor

Position Title:Executive Editor (Buffalo Spree magazine, Forever Young magazine)

Location: Western New York - Must have a significant understanding of WNY and it's communities. Work from home, office, by appointment, Zoom, remotely, hybrid, monthly all staff in office meetings, etc.

Position Type: Full-time

The Role: You must be actively engaged in the Western New York Community and stay informed about the latest developments, events, trends, and human-interest stories. The Executive Editor is a key ambassador for the publication, representing Buffalo Spree within the community and fostering connections. The Executive Editor of Buffalo Spreeand Forever Young plays a pivotal role in leading the editorial team and ensuring the production of high-quality content across multiple platforms. You will oversee all aspects of the editorial process, from assigning articles to freelance writers to finalizing layouts in collaboration with the creative department. This role requires strong writing and copyediting skills, exceptional organization and attention to detail, effective communication, and proficient use of various software tools, including Adobe InDesign, Google Suite, and Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities:

· Content Management: Make assignments to freelance writers, oversee content creation, and ensure timely delivery of edited copy to design team.

· Layout Coordination: Collaborate with the Art Director to create initial layouts using a master list of ads and place editorial and advertising content in a Google Sheets document.

· Production Oversight: Complete issue rundowns, track incoming copy, and maintain production schedules to meet deadlines. Make assignments to photographers, source supplied images from media contacts, place supplied images (including readers snapshots submitted through JotForm) onto server for designers.

· Collaboration: Lead bi-weekly meetings between art department and editorial team, attend weekly manager meetings,work closely with the creative department to discuss content treatments, review layouts, and ensure alignment between editorial and design elements.

· Writing, Editing, and Proofreading: Write editorial and advertorial pieces, provide copyediting support to maintain editorial standards, compile event listings, make additions and corrections in Adobe InDesign, add captions and photo credits.

· Communication: Liaise with editorial team, designers, photographers, proofreaders, and sales teams to coordinate content production and address any issues.

· Strategic Planning: Create yearly editorial calendar with input from publisher, editorial team, and writers, set and enforce deadlines for events listings, maintain the editorial calendar, and contribute to strategic discussions regarding content direction and audience engagement. Stay informed about the latest news, events, and trends in Western New York. Monitor local media outlets, social media platforms, and community forums to identify potential story ideas, emerging topics, and opportunities for collaboration with local influencers and experts.

· Supervisory Support: Provide leadership and guidance to editorial team, freelance contributors, and interns, create invoices for freelance contributors to submit to finance manager, ensure deadline adherence.

· Community Engagement: Actively engage with local organizations, businesses, and community leaders to gain knowledge of and understand stories that should be told. Attend relevant events, networking opportunities, and community gatherings to build relationships and gather insights, and pursue possible sponsorships. Make regular media appearances (radio, television) on Spree’s behalf.

· Digital Content Management: Coordinate with webmaster for online content, write copy for Digital Edition email alerts, compile weekly e-newsletter, Spree Scoop, suggest social media content, edit sponsored website content for errors and style; write, assign, or approve online-only articles where appropriate.

Minimum Qualifications:

· In-depth knowledge of Western New York, including its history, culture, and current affairs

· Familiarity with key local institutions, landmarks, and influential figures, as well as enthusiasm for the qualities and opportunities that Western New York has to offer.

· Strong appreciation for the cultural heritage and diversity of Western New York

· Exceptional writing skills and ability to craft engaging, informative content.

· Proven track record of copyediting skills, with a keen eye for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and style consistency; ability to review and polish written content to ensure clarity, accuracy, and adherence to editorial standards.

· Strong organizational skills, including attention to detail and follow-up. Ability to meet deadlines and maintain publishing schedules, as well as to prioritize and multi-task across several projects simultaneously.

· Proficiency in Google Suite applications, including Docs, Sheets, and Drive

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications, particularly Word and Excel

Preferred Qualifications:

· Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, English, or related field

· Previous experience in a journalistic setting

· Experience or proficiency with Adobe InDesign

Salary Range:

· $50K - $65K, DOE

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume to bmacks@buffalospree.com.

Buffalo Spree Publishing is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Amherst, NY 14228