Reporter

Crain Communications•Cleveland, OH

22h•Hybrid

About The Position

Crain’s Cleveland Business is seeking a reporter to cover power and influence in Northeast Ohio’s economy for an audience that expects sharp reporting, clear analysis, and real authority. This role drives original reporting on the people, capital and decisions shaping the region, while working across the newsroom to deepen and extend major stories. You’ll produce data-driven analysis, accountability reporting and profiles of key players, helping readers understand how deals get done, who holds power and where the region is headed next. This role sits at the center of our newsroom’s mission: to break news, interpret complex developments, and deliver journalism that moves conversations in the industries we cover. You’ll report fast, write cleanly, and balance breaking coverage with deeper enterprise and analysis. This beat demands someone who can build strong source networks, develop original story ideas, and spot the signal in the noise across a rapidly changing landscape. We are a digital-first newsroom. You’ll publish throughout the day, contribute to newsletters, use analytics to understand audience behavior, and collaborate across teams to shape coverage that resonates with the people who rely on us most. This is a fast-paced role that requires initiative, accountability, and a collaborative mindset. You’ll succeed by developing a strong command of your beat, maintaining steady communication with editors, and consistently delivering reporting that stands out in a competitive news environment. This role uses modern digital and AI tools to accelerate research and reporting, but fundamentally relies on your judgment, sourcing, and storytelling.

Requirements

Degree in journalism or a related field, or equivalent experience.
5+ years of reporting experience, depending on seniority level.
Proven ability to break news and develop reliable sources.
Ability to write clean, concise, accurate copy on tight deadlines.
Strong news judgment and curiosity, with the ability to “see the story” in complex material.
Comfort operating in a digital-first environment — juggling multiple stories, updating as news evolves, and collaborating with editors in real time.
Ability to interpret data, financial documents, legislation, research, or filings relevant to the beat.
Comfort using digital tools — including analytics platforms, research databases, and AI-enabled search or transcription tools — to support reporting and source development.
Skill in generating enterprise ideas that illuminate trends and add depth beyond the headlines.

Nice To Haves

Experience covering power and influence from a business perspective or a related field.
Familiarity with SEC filings, CoStar, city, county, state and federal databases and public records.
Experience with newsletters, audience analytics, multimedia, or event participation.
A track record of stories that demonstrate both speed and depth.

Responsibilities

Break news and deliver scoops on the power and influence beat.
Report and write quick-turn stories, longer enterprise pieces, and analytical coverage.
Develop deep source relationships across key stakeholders.
Track data, filings, market movements, and industry shifts to surface stories before competitors do.
Pitch ideas that reflect audience needs and anticipate how the story will evolve.
Collaborate with editors, audience teams, and colleagues across the newsroom.
Contribute to newsletters, social media promotion, and digital publishing workflows.
Participate in brand-specific events, panels and award programs as needed.
Stay attuned to trends, innovations, and forces reshaping power and influence in Northeast Ohio.