FOIA Editor

The New York Times•New York, NY

1d•$124,980 - $150,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The New York Times is seeking a FOIA Editor to lead and guide the company's strategy for utilizing the Freedom of Information Act and other public records laws to acquire information from governmental and public entities. This role will act as a central resource for the newsroom, providing guidance and support to journalists on how to effectively use these laws to obtain information in the public interest. The FOIA Editor will consult with teams on effective tactics, integrating FOIA requests early in the story development process. Additionally, this role will be responsible for generating story ideas and original coverage through the FOIA process, identifying opportunities for public records that can lead to significant news. Collaboration with data, visual, and product teams to create compelling stories using new technologies and formats is also a key aspect of this position. The FOIA Editor will manage and expedite public records requests by maintaining a centralized database and will work with the Legal department to identify cases that may require litigation support.

Requirements

5+ years’ experience at a journalism or media company or other relevant organization.
Demonstrated success navigating and resolving legal issues related to public records laws.
A record of collaborating and partnering with colleagues to find innovative storytelling approaches through the use of public records and other legal strategies.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in shaping the public records strategy of a news organization.
Conversant in local and state public records laws and practices in addition to the federal statute.
Deep familiarity with media law or a law degree
A record of adjusting to the evolving and changing needs of a newsroom

Responsibilities

Develop and refine FOIA requests in partnership with internal stakeholders for submission
Serve as a consultant for teams as they design public records requests to bolster their reporting, with a priority on integrating such requests early into the process of developing stories.
Propose and drive story ideas based on FOIA requests and coordinate coverage across multiple desks
Consult with desks to understand when and how to augment ongoing themes with FOIA requests
Advise journalists across the newsroom about the most effective approaches to obtain information through public records laws.
Develop and maintain training materials and deliver training about what information can be obtained through the federal Freedom of Information Act and similar state and local statutes.
Coordinate, track and help expedite public records requests by maintaining a centralized database of FOIA requests and appeals.
Partner with the Legal department in identifying efforts to seek public information that merit litigation support.
Represent the Newsroom in partnership with Legal on FOIA matters
Demonstrate support and understanding of our value of journalistic independence and a strong commitment to our mission to seek the truth and help people understand the world.