Head of Public Discourse

Chicago Public Media•Chicago, IL

9d•$145,000 - $160,000

About The Position

Chicago Sun-Times is seeking an experienced, innovative editor to lead and expand its strategy for public discourse and community perspectives, building on the newsroom’s tradition of distinctive, trusted voices. The Head of Public Discourse will define the strategy; commission and edit compelling commentary; develop staff columnists and contributors; explore new ways of sharing and exchanging commentary; and broaden the range of Chicago perspectives represented across digital, audio, and print platforms, including newsletters, social video, and web displays. The role will also help reporters build recognizable brands and authority in their areas of expertise. The position works with newsroom, audience, visual, and product teams to identify effective formats, platforms, and presentation for opinion content. It requires strong editing and news judgment, a commitment to journalistic ethics and inclusive coverage, and knowledge of Chicago, its communities, and regional issues. Chicago Public Media is a nonprofit news organization home to WBEZ 91.5FM, the Chicago Sun-Times, and Vocalo. It reaches more than 3.3 million people weekly across broadcast, print, and digital platforms and is supported by nearly 97,000 members. The organization has approximately 250 staff professionals. The expected annual pay range is $145,000–$160,000.

Requirements

Five or more years of editing, commentary, or journalism experience.
Demonstrated commitment to journalistic ethics and inclusive coverage.
Excellent news judgment and editing skills.
Strong understanding of Chicago, its communities, and the issues shaping the region.
Demonstrated ability to develop journalists’ voices, expertise, and public-facing authority across multiple platforms.
Experience developing writers and working with a wide range of contributors and perspectives.
Ability to shape compelling, audience-focused content across platforms.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Lead the Sun-Times’ public discourse strategy, ensuring it reflects the breadth of Chicago and advances the organization’s editorial standards and public-service mission.
Recruit, commission, and edit staff writers, freelance contributors, community voices, and subject-matter experts.
Coach reporters and columnists to develop clear, distinctive points of view and deepen their authority on the issues and communities they cover.
Develop recognizable staff voices that build trust and give readers reasons to return across platforms.
Work with reporters to identify opportunities for their expertise to reach audiences through columns, newsletters, social media, video, events, and other formats.
Partner with newsroom, audience, visual, and product teams to identify the strongest formats, platforms, and presentation for opinion content.
Maintain high standards for accuracy, fairness, clarity, and ethical journalism.