Deputy Editor

The Conversation seeks an experienced editor to take on a leadership role in its UK newsroom. The Deputy Editor of The Conversation UK is a senior position, reporting to the Executive Editor.

The Deputy Editor will define the delivery and nature of Conversation content that is derived from academics in the UK and at other EU institutions in membership of TCUK, while seeking to expand its readership.

The Deputy stands in for the editor when she or he is absent; plays a leading role in shaping the content strategy for the project in the UK edition’s remit; motivates editorial staff and aids their development; focuses in particular on high value editorial properties such as series and international collaborations; shapes and defines editorial policy with the Editor and the Editorial Board; and operates as an ambassador for The Conversation in the UK (and potentially in certain other parts of Europe).

This is a job for a motivated editor who will be expected to help an already successful operation evolve, providing continuity of copy management through the working week and highlighting issues and events that must be covered. Spotting and avoiding problems before they happen is an important part of the job, as is overseeing the copytasting operation.

The successful candidate will be a strong planner, confident and assertive in dealing with other senior editors, but personable and a team player.

The role will require flexibility, and a commitment to ensuring key news moments are analysed and explained by The Conversation’s unique model.

The Deputy Editor will be expected to be present and prominent at all morning conferences and other key planning meetings through the week.

The Deputy Editor will require a forensic understanding of The Conversation’s operating model, a sense of the importance of timeliness, and of the value and opportunities of republishing.

She or he will be expected to work closely with TCUK’s Audience team and section editors to ensure the potential for republication and the dissemination of news lines is realised.

Ensuring there is a strong daily volume and mix of copy on site, in newsletters and across socials, will also be a core part of the role.

Key Responsibilities:

• In consultation with with the Editor and Chief Executive, implement TCUK’s Editorial Strategy
• Support the Editor by providing editorial input into the wider organisation strategy and budget, including donations, funding, member development and audience
• Overseeing the editorial team on a day to day basis, including recruitment and line management of section editors
• Provide guidance to the staff of TCUK, ensuring we have a supportive, creative working environment
• Ensure the quality, breadth and diversity of all our publishing meets the targets we have set, and is focused on a core audience which provides members with value
• Ensuring that our publishing conforms to our Charter and to all our policies, appropriately managing any legal and reputational risks;
• Run editorial conferences;
• Plan future articles and series;
• Represent and promote The Conversation among key stakeholders, including universities, research institutions, republishers, events, and the media;
• Participate in monthly management and quarterly staff meetings; assisting in the overall development of the company.
• When required, represent UK Editorial within the TC Network, through the GEC, sharing best practice, developing joint projects, supporting new editions

Reports to: Executive Editor

Key Relationships: Editorial Board, Chief Executive, GEC

Salary: Level 4/Director