Puck is searching for an Editorial Director to partner with Puck's influential journalists on newsletter and podcast content creation, from story ideation through content development, across a number of newsletter franchises.
You will manage and work closely with our senior journalists to oversee the development and execution of content and overall growth strategies for assigned franchises, initially prioritizing our politics/Washington coverage. This includes, but is not limited to, maintaining the overall franchise creative direction, growth strategies, and execution of multiple projects related to a franchise, as well as mentorship of other talent within the franchise.
Primary Responsibilities
- Newsletter Content Management: Serve as the point person on editorial decisions, in collaboration with Puck's Editor-in-Chief and Executive Editor to ensure that each newsletter product meets Puck's standards for length, breadth and depth of content.
- Talent Management: Own the day-to-day people management and development of key talent, ensuring that they have clear growth targets, are adhering to publishing deadlines, and are armed with the resources and tools they need to effectively report on their coverage areas.
- Content Development: Work closely with talent to ideate and develop newsletter and podcast content related to each franchise and in alignment with Puck's tone and creative vision.
- Cross-Functional Partnership: Collaborate with all Puck functions, particularly Commercial and Marketing, to ensure franchise content is in alignment with planned commercial obligations and brand creative.
- Brand Management: Maintain a meticulous focus on Puck and franchise-level brands and ensure creative assets are continuously meeting the highest standards.
- Success Metrics: Work with Business Operations & Strategy and editorial leadership to help establish and enforce clear, measurable success metrics for franchise performance, including editorial deadlines and commercial and subscriber growth targets. Leverage data to track performance, inform decisions, and evaluate outcomes.
To best perform this role, you will demonstrate:
- A passion for journalism and a deep understanding of what makes newsletter and podcast content resonate with highly engaged, discerning audiences
- A collaborative, low-ego leadership style - the ability to earn the trust of high-profile journalists and guide their work without overriding their voice
- Exceptional editorial instincts - you know a great story angle, a sharp lede, and a compelling narrative structure when you see one
- A data-informed mindset - you're comfortable reviewing performance metrics and translating them into actionable editorial and growth decisions
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple franchise priorities simultaneously without losing focus on quality
- A clear point of view on where political and Washington journalism is headed, and how Puck can lead rather than follow
Qualifications:
- 10+ years of editorial experience, with at least 3 years in a senior editorial leadership role at a digital media, newsletter, or journalism organization
- Demonstrated experience managing and developing senior journalistic talent
- Deep familiarity with the newsletter format and the unique demands of building a loyal subscriber base
- Experience working across editorial and commercial functions, with an understanding of how content strategy intersects with revenue and audience growth
- Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field
- Experience in political or Washington journalism strongly preferred
Salary, Perks & Benefits:
- Flexible PTO, in addition to company holidays
- Company-sponsored health, dental, vision and 401K plans
- Company equity
- Endless development opportunities at a fast-growing startup
- The salary hiring range for this position is $170,000 - $225,000. Final title and compensation will ultimately be based on the candidate's location, skill level and experience.
