The Chief International Editor is the editorial leader of NPR’s International Desk responsible for the content, integrity and quality of coverage from four regional editors and 22 correspondents in 17 overseas bureaus and Washington D.C. This position is also a key leader in informing and executing the overall strategy for international news in conjunction with the News Desk and Digital News. He/she works closely with senior NPR management on important issues, including budgets, sponsorship and fundraising, public representation, strengthening of a multi-platform newsroom, as well as field safety and security for staff based outside the US or sent on medium and high-risk assignments overseas. The Chief International Editor reports to the Executive Editor.
- Sets the editorial direction of international coverage as one of the signature elements of NPR News.
- Works closely with the Executive Editor and Senior Director of Field Safety and Security and uses applicable resources to institute and maintain safety protocols for field-based staff, and to ensure regular training for staff working in hostile environments.
- Supervises and Manages the editorial product and the staff that produces it.
- Maintains close relationships with the on air show Executive Producers, Deputy Managing Editors, Desk Editors and General Manager for Podcasts to ensure coordinated coverage and staffing.
- Works closely with the News Operations and Engineering departments while keeping abreast of new technology and products so that NPR can adopt new work practices to improve coverage.
- Supervises systems for smooth pass-offs from shift to shift around the clock, including weekends.
- Directs with Deputy Editor the assignment of duties and establishes accountability for all phases of the operation.
- Monitors International Desk coverage in a consistent manner across all platforms.
- Regularly has critical discussions about international coverage with the staff and other newsroom leaders.
- Directs editors and correspondents to develop and maintain a list of freelance news and/or contract reporters in areas uncovered by NPR staff and/or backup to existing staff.
- Plans and monitors the International Desk annual budgets and spending.
- At least 12 years of journalism editorial experience, including work overseas.
- A minimum of 7 years’ experience in a senior editorial and supervisory position in an international news organization.
- Strong leadership skills: the ability to set a vision (near and long-term) for the International Desk and to guide the staff through it.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with other news leaders, as well as other divisions in the development of new products and new ways to reach the NPR community.
- A creative mind and a keen understanding of the NPR sensibility and mission of public radio.
- Ability to handle multiple and complex projects simultaneously under stringent timeframes and changing priorities and conditions.
- Understanding of and experience with more than one editorial platform.
PREFERRED SKILLS:
- Radio broadcast experience in editing and production.
- Familiarity with latest and best digital and social media practices.
- Ability and willingness to relocate.
- Language competency beyond English.
NPR offers a competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package including health and wellness benefits, retirement, and work/life balance programs, as well as opportunities for career growth and development.