Senior News Editor, Marketing Communication and Public Affairs

Reports to: Director of Content

Purpose: The job holder is responsible for the production of the University’s major community e-newsletter News@AUC, including planning, scheduling and assigning and coordinating stories/content, reviewing and approving the newsletters and content/story creation. In addition to News@AUC, he/she will oversee any major e-newsletters on behalf of the University. Furthermore, responsible for researching, interviewing and writing stories and content for digital and print materials produced by the office, which may appear in The American University in Cairo’s (AUC) major publications. Under the guidance of the director of content, the job holder works to investigate, find and produce stories and articles that bring to life the University’s key messages and positioning. As part of the editorial team, the he/she works to bring AUC faces, ideas and programs to the audiences it serves, from students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents and donors to website visitors and members of the public. In addition, ensure the English-language quality and consistency of materials produced by the University as needed.

Responsibilities:

• Produce stories and feature articles for the University’s main publications and website, mainly for News@AUC and AUC Today
• Seek out stories that reflect the University’s main messages and positioning
• Manage the process of planning, scheduling, assigning and coordinating stories/content, reviewing and editing the newsletter and content stories/creation, and sending the newsletter on time
• Help manage an editorial calendar incorporating main stories for News@AUC, as well as local, regional and international events that should be highlighted in the newsletter
• Have strong editorial skills in terms of what makes an interesting angle for a story, decide which ideas should be pursued or dropped in line with AUC’s main strategic pillars and messages
• Coordinate photography, interviews and video interviews for main stories in the newsletter
• Ensure newsletter content is exceptional, informative and engaging as well as sharable on other University channels including website, social media and newsletters
• Regularly check social media and other University platforms to seek out interesting stories/highlights to cover in the newsletter
• Serve as point of contact for clients from schools, departments or offices who have questions on editorial policy or newsletter content
• Manage the presidential associates to produce top-quality stories, engaging content and an attractive newsletter for News@AUC and the website, and ensure deadlines for newsletter publishing are met
• Manage the video reporter position in the production of video stories for the content unit
• Produce and review monthly and annual story statistics/readership reports for University content and integrate findings into the story selection, writing and editing processes
• Coordinate with the magazine editor for story assignments, planning, and content types production and volume
• Provide writing assistance, guidance and editorial contribution for publications and digital content as needed
• Edit or write, as needed, University-produced publications (print or online) to ensure compliance with AUC’s Editorial Style Guide
• Assist, as needed, in the production of electronic newsletters and select print publications, including story selection, compilation and testing
• Assist in regular update of AUC’s Editorial Style Guide, including online tags and keyword rules
• Adopt best practices and search engine optimization skills to enhance the ease of access for digital content in coordination with the digital communication unit

Requirements:

Minimum Education Requirements:

• BA in journalism, communications or related field

Experience:

• 5-7 years of professional experience in writing, editing, journalism and communication

Skills:

• Excellent English writing and editing skills,
• Strong command of principles of grammar, and editorial style
• Experience in newsletter editing and production
• Advanced interviewing, reporting, research, writing and editing skills
• Coordination, multitasking and time management skills
• Experience with writing and editing print and online publications
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Knowledge of editorial style guidelines; knowledge of AP is a plus
• Ability to work in a team
• Ability to manage reporters
• Collaboration and service with AUC departments, offices and other constituents
• Commitment to high-quality delivery and deadlines
• Ability to use computer tools and software; knowledge of Mail Chimp and other newsletter production software is a plus
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines
• Ability to communicate effectively with members of the AUC community

This position is open until March 15, 2023

Placement is based on the candidate’s experience and skills. Only candidates who make it to the short list will be contacted.

"The American University in Cairo is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply."

“We thank all individuals who have expressed interest in working at The American University in Cairo.”