Executive Editor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital publishing, the role of the executive editor has become paramount.

As the media landscape evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can guide, shape, and protect our editorial direction grows stronger.

But what does an executive editor’s role truly entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager envisioning the perfect fit,
• Or simply captivated by the world of editorial management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Executive Editor job description template, designed for easy uploading to job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Executive Editor Duties and Responsibilities

Executive Editors are in charge of overseeing all editorial content, ensuring it aligns with the organization’s vision and mission, and making sure it is engaging and timely for the audience.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing daily operations of the editorial department and coordinating with other departments
• Developing and implementing editorial policies and standards
• Planning and approving assignments for writers and editors
• Reviewing, editing and approving all content before publication
• Ensuring all written work is original and free from plagiarism
• Monitoring and managing the department’s budget
• Setting deadlines and ensuring they are met
• Conducting regular staff meetings to address any issues or updates
• Representing the company at various events, such as conferences and trade shows
• Maintaining knowledge of current news events, industry trends, and emerging social issues
• Hiring, training, and supervising editorial staff

 

Executive Editor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Executive Editor to lead our editorial team.

This role involves overseeing all editorial content, managing editorial staff, and collaborating with other departments to produce high-quality publications that align with our brand’s voice and vision.

The Executive Editor will also be responsible for setting and implementing the editorial strategy, maintaining high journalistic standards, and meeting publication deadlines.

This role requires exceptional leadership skills, a deep understanding of the publishing industry, and a strong editorial background.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the editorial department including content creation, editing, design, and production
• Lead, mentor and manage a team of editors, writers and designers
• Develop and implement the editorial strategy in line with company goals
• Ensure all content meets the company’s quality standards and is on-brand
• Collaborate with other departments such as marketing and sales
• Manage relationships with contributors, authors and other key stakeholders
• Set and maintain editorial calendar and ensure deadlines are met
• Monitor and report on content performance metrics
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and news

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Executive Editor, Managing Editor or similar role
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent writing and editing skills, with a keen eye for detail
• Understanding of content performance metrics
• Proficiency in MS Office and Content Management Systems (CMS)
• Experience with SEO and social media platforms
• Strong decision-making skills
• BSc degree in Journalism, English, or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Executive Editor
• Work Environment: Office setting with potential for remote work. May require travel for industry events or conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Chief Executive Officer or Publisher.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $90,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Executive Editor Do?

Executive Editors are high-level professionals typically found in publishing, broadcasting, and digital media industries.

They may also work as freelancers or consultants.

They oversee all aspects of content creation, from conceptualizing and assigning topics to editing and approving the final product.

This involves working closely with writers, journalists, designers, and other editors to ensure the content meets the company’s quality standards and targets the intended audience effectively.

Executive Editors also often play a crucial role in shaping the organization’s content strategy.

They decide on themes, subjects, or issues that should be highlighted based on the company’s mission and the audience’s interests.

They are also involved in hiring and training editorial staff, managing budgets, and making decisions about what content to publish or broadcast.

They might collaborate with marketing and sales teams to align content with promotional activities.

In some cases, they may serve as the public face of a media outlet, representing the company at industry events or in media interviews.

Overall, the Executive Editor’s goal is to ensure the production of high-quality, relevant, and engaging content that resonates with the audience and upholds the brand’s reputation.

 

Executive Editor Qualifications and Skills

An accomplished Executive Editor should possess a range of skills and qualifications that line up with the role’s requirements, such as:

• Exceptional editing and writing skills to review, modify and approve content in a way that aligns with the organization’s vision and target audience
• Leadership skills to direct and manage the editorial team effectively, guiding them towards achieving their goals
• Organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines are met and quality content is produced
• Research skills to stay informed of industry trends, competitors’ strategies and the interests of the target audience
• Strong communication skills to coordinate with writers, photographers, designers and other contributors to maintain an effective workflow
• Problem-solving skills to address issues that may arise during the content production process and find effective solutions
• Understanding of digital publishing and formatting tools for the creation and distribution of content across various platforms
• Time management skills to efficiently balance a multitude of tasks, from reviewing content to managing staff and meeting with stakeholders

 

Executive Editor Experience Requirements

Executive Editors often have a significant amount of experience in the field of publishing, generally ranging from 7 to 10 years or more.

They typically start their career in entry-level roles such as Staff Writer or Associate Editor.

As they gain more experience and demonstrate strong editorial skills, they may progress to intermediate roles such as Senior Editor or Deputy Editor, where they get a chance to manage projects and teams.

Experience in these roles often includes responsibilities such as proofreading, copy editing, content planning, and coordinating with writers, photographers, and other creative professionals.

Professionals aiming to become Executive Editors should also have experience managing budgets, meeting deadlines, and making important editorial decisions.

Many Executive Editors have advanced degrees in Journalism, English, Communications, or a related field.

They also often have a portfolio of published work to showcase their editorial skill and breadth of experience.

Those with more than 10 years of experience in the publishing industry may be well suited for an Executive Editor role, particularly if they have proven leadership experience and a strong reputation for producing high-quality content.

In some cases, Executive Editors may also require experience with digital publishing tools and strategies, given the increasing importance of online and digital media.

 

Executive Editor Education and Training Requirements

Executive Editors typically have a bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, communications or a related field.

These programs help develop strong writing and editing skills, critical thinking, and an understanding of what makes a compelling news story.

Some Executive Editors may also have a master’s degree in journalism or a related field.

In addition to formal education, Executive Editors often have several years of experience in journalism, writing, or editing.

They have typically worked their way up from roles such as reporter, writer, or lower-level editor.

Continuing education is also important for Executive Editors as they need to stay updated with the latest advancements in digital technology, social media trends, and changing media laws.

Certifications in specific areas such as digital journalism or multimedia production can also enhance a candidate’s skills and marketability.

Leadership skills are crucial in this role, as Executive Editors oversee the work of reporters and other editors.

Therefore, experience or training in management could also be beneficial.

 

Executive Editor Salary Expectations

An Executive Editor typically earns an average salary of $98,979 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary significantly based on the individual’s level of experience, the size and type of the publication, and geographical location.

 

Executive Editor Job Description FAQs

What are the key responsibilities of an Executive Editor?

An Executive Editor manages and guides the content strategy of a publication, oversees the work of editors and writers, and makes final decisions on what gets published.

They also collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to expand the readership, and work with the design team to ensure the layout aligns with the content.

They may also be involved in hiring and training staff, and setting budgets.

 

What skills should an Executive Editor possess?

Executive Editors must have exceptional writing and editing skills, with the ability to shape the voice and tone of a publication.

They need to have excellent leadership skills to manage and motivate a team of writers and editors.

They also need strong communication skills to liaise between departments, and with external stakeholders.

A keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of their audience, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are also crucial.

 

What qualifications does an Executive Editor need?

Most Executive Editors have a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, English or a related field.

Many have also gained extensive experience in lower-level editing roles, or as writers.

Some may also have a Master’s degree in journalism or an MBA.

 

What makes a good Executive Editor?

A good Executive Editor has the ability to spot trends and identify stories that will resonate with their audience.

They balance creative and commercial concerns, ensuring that the publication remains engaging, relevant, and profitable.

They foster a collaborative environment, inspiring their team to produce their best work.

They also have a strong ethical compass, upholding the integrity of the publication.

 

How should an Executive Editor handle deadlines?

An Executive Editor should be able to manage multiple projects at once and prioritize tasks to meet tight deadlines.

They need to coordinate effectively with their team to ensure that all content is ready for publication on schedule.

They also need to be able to make quick decisions under pressure, and be prepared to adjust plans if unforeseen circumstances arise.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the true essence of being an executive editor.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about correcting grammar and punctuation.

It’s about shaping the narrative of content, one word at a time.

With our reliable executive editor job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next career move.

But why limit yourself?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your invaluable tool for crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every word you edit is part of a larger narrative.

Let’s create that story. Together.

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