Senior Director of News, WKBWAre you a proven news leader ready to elevate one of the most dynamic newsrooms in Western New York? WKBW, The E.W. Scripps ABC affiliate in Buffalo, New York, is seeking an experienced Senior Director of News to lead our newsroom and drive continued audience growth and journalistic excellence. This is your opportunity to lead a talented team of journalists committed to delivering critical community journalism that serves Buffalo and Western New York.
We're looking for a visionary leader who can inspire compelling storytelling, foster innovation, and navigate the rapidly evolving media landscape. If you're passionate about quality local journalism, digital innovation, developing great people, and building a positive, hard-charging newsroom culture, we want to hear from you.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:- Create and implement strategic plans for audience growth and newsroom operations.
- Develop and implement measurable strategies for audience growth while effectively managing news content delivered across 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 the annual budget in compliance with station guidelines.
- Build and maintain key relationships to foster a positive news image within the Buffalo and Western New York community.
- Monitor all on-air and online products for compliance with federal, state and local laws as well as First and Fourteenth Amendment requirements.
- Work closely with other members of the station management team to develop and attain departmental and station goals.
- Maintain knowledge of and proficiency in posting content to station websites.
- 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.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED:- At least 5 years of news management experience is required.
- Bachelor's degree in journalism, communication or a related field preferred.
WHAT YOU'LL BRING:- Demonstrated ability to track and select trending news stories.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Ability to lead and make sound decisions in a rapid, fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays.
- Strong editorial judgment and knowledge of journalistic ethics and libel laws.
- Ability to create tactics and strategies to increase audience performance in key target areas across multiple platforms.
- Working knowledge of federal, state and local laws impacting operations.
- Advanced oral and written communication skills.
- Effectiveness in a variety of formal presentation settings, both inside and outside the organization.
- Proven and effective leadership skills, including fostering open dialogue, empowering others, and addressing conflict quickly and directly.
WHERE YOU'LL LIVE, WORK AND PLAY:Buffalo, New York offers the energy and amenities of a major city with the accessibility and strong sense of community that make Western New York a distinctive place to call home. Located along the shores of Lake Erie and just a short drive from Niagara Falls, Buffalo combines rich history and architecture with professional sports, arts and culture, a vibrant food scene, and year-round opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Western New York is known for its passionate communities and strong local identity. From Buffalo's neighborhoods and waterfront to the surrounding communities of Western New York, the region offers plenty to explore. Whether you're taking in a Bills or Sabres game, experiencing the area's festivals and cultural attractions, exploring the waterfront, or making a quick trip to Niagara Falls, Buffalo offers a combination of big-city experiences and a welcoming community atmosphere.
For a news leader, Buffalo is a market where local journalism matters. At WKBW, you'll lead a newsroom focused on delivering important, relevant community journalism to audiences across Buffalo and Western New York while helping shape how that journalism reaches viewers across platforms. WKBW is Scripps' ABC affiliate in Buffalo.
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COMPENSATION RANGE:Annual Salary: $135,000.00 - $155,000.00
Pursuant to state and local salary transparency laws, the salary range posted is specific to candidates who will perform this work in New York.
WHAT WE OFFER (ADDITIONAL BENEFITS):- A career path to grow your professional experiences
- Full medical, dental and vision benefits, as well as certain other health and wellness benefits
- Retirement savings plan with company match
- Other key company benefits include disability accident insurance, hospital indemnity, critical illness, life insurance, AD&D, ID protection, pet discount program, and employee assistance program. More details about timing and conditions of benefits eligibility and other plan terms and conditions will be provided upon hire.
If you are a current Scripps employee, please do not apply on this site. Please access our internal career site at Worklife > My Info > View Open Positions at Scripps.