News Director, WXMI

Scripps•Grand Rapids, MI

31d•Onsite

About The Position

The E.W. Scripps Company’s WXMI FOX 17 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is seeking an experienced News Director to lead our newsroom into a new era of investigative and enterprise journalism. Grand Rapids is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural scene, beautiful parks, and a thriving culinary landscape, offering a perfect blend of urban living and outdoor recreation. Here, you can enjoy everything from a bustling arts community to scenic lakes, making it an ideal location for both personal and professional growth. In this role, you will inspire and develop a talented team of journalists to create impactful local content, while embracing an innovative digital-first mindset. By leveraging web, OTT, and social media platforms, you will ensure our stories reach and resonate with audiences across multiple channels. We are searching for a proactive leader who can effectively strategize for a rapidly-changing media landscape, coordinate breaking news coverage, and cultivate a collaborative, high-energy newsroom environment. If you are passionate about storytelling and ready to make a significant impact in the community, we encourage you to apply. Join us at WXMI to lead a committed team dedicated to journalistic excellence and community engagement. Together, let’s shape the future of local news in a city that thrives on creativity and connectivity.

Requirements

At least 5-years or more of News Management experience is required.
Bachelor's degree in journalism, communication or related field preferred.
Demonstrated ability to track and select trending news stories.
Strong organizational skills.
Ability to work in a rapid, fast-paced environment.
Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays .
Knowledge and demonstration of editorial judgment, journalistic ethics and libel laws.
Ability to create tactics and strategies to increase demo performance in key target areas for multiple platforms.
Have working knowledge of federal, state and local laws impacting operations.
Advanced oral and written communication skills.
Effective in a variety of formal presentation settings both inside and outside the organization.
Proven and effective leadership skills; fosters open dialogue, empowers others, addresses conflict quickly and directly.

Responsibilities

Create & implement strategic plans for audience growth and newsroom operations.
Responsible for developing and implementing measurable strategies for audience growth while effectively managing news content delivered on multiple platforms.
Communicate a compelling and inspired vision consistent with company strategy.
Analyze and respond to trends affecting the industry and DMA.
Approve all newsroom personnel decisions.
Develop and control annual budget to comply with station guidelines.
Build and maintain key relationships to foster a positive news image within the community.
Monitor all on-air and online product for compliance to Federal, State and local laws as well as First & Fourteenth Amendments.
Work closely with other members of station management team to develop and attain departmental and station goals.
Knowledge of and proficiency in posting content to station websites.
Ability to adapt current resources to emerging technology.
Supervise and provide regular feedback and yearly performance appraisals for direct reports with ultimate responsibility for all newsroom personnel.
Perform other duties as assigned.