Editor, Jewish Rhode Island

Supervisory responsibilities: Advertising Sales representative and acts as a senior member of the content team 

Background: 

The Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island serves to enrich the quality of life for Jews in Rhode Island, in Israel, and around the world. Today’s Alliance is where the community comes together as one to develop responses to critical issues facing Rhode Island. We do this through philanthropy, education and wellness opportunities, community relations, and by convening agencies, synagogues, and organizations to address issues of common concern. Together, we translate Jewish values into action. All our work is guided by our core values: 

• Tzedakah: upholding the Jewish traditions of righteous giving and justice. 
• L’dor v’dor: securing a future filled with Jewish tradition and heritage. 
• Tikkun Olam: repairing the world. 
• Hineni: standing with others so no one stands alone. 
• Klal Yisrael: supporting worldwide Judaism and the State of Israel. 
• Torah: pursuing knowledge and lifelong learning. 

Summary of Job Description:  

With a focus on stability and growth, the Editor of Jewish Rhode Island plays a key role on the Jewish Alliance team, helping deliver timely, relevant news and stories from greater Rhode Island’s Jewish community and to readers across the region. The Editor leads the editorial vision for the print newspaper, website and other multi-media offerings—guiding content strategy, elevating the quality and breadth of coverage, and expanding the publication’s reach, particularly among younger audiences. This role oversees community submissions, manages freelance writers, and collaborates with the advertising sales representative, who is responsible for revenue growth. Working closely with the Chief Content Officer, CEO as the publisher, graphic designer, and branding team, the Editor also helps shape the publication’s digital strategy, including social media and other engagement efforts, all while ensuring the print edition remains strong and vibrant. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

Editorial Responsibilities 

• Exercise sound journalistic judgment in determining news coverage, story priority, and placement across print, web, and social media platforms. 

• Report on and write stories that inform and engage readers about issues within or affecting greater Rhode Island’s Jewish community. 

• Coordinate staff, volunteers, and freelance contributors to ensure a steady pipeline of content that meets publication deadlines. 

• Maintain open, responsive communication with the community; act as an advocate for readers and continually seek ways to better serve their needs. 

• Partner with community members and Alliance leadership to support the growth of readership, circulation, and advertising. 

• Write a 500–800-word column for each issue. 

• Oversee a strategic editorial calendar that supports thoughtful planning while remaining flexible for breaking news and evolving community issues. 

• Write, edit, and manage contributors for special publications, including the annual Guide to Jewish Living. 

• Produce clear, trustworthy reporting that reflects the needs and concerns of the community, and strengthens relationships with readers, contributors, and local partners. 

Operational Responsibilities 

• Oversee all aspects of a community newspaper, including editorial content, design and layout, print production, advertising and revenue, budgeting, donor-support campaigns, website content, social media strategy, and the recruitment and management of an advisory committee. 

• Manage the annual Guide to Jewish Living, including editorial planning, advertising coordination, and production. 

• Establish the annual publication schedule and themes. Set standards, deadlines, and policies for print and digital advertising; maintain rate cards and editorial calendars, including special sections. 

• Create, implement, and update editorial and operational guidelines and policies as needed. 

• Track, analyze, and report on circulation, audience reach, and engagement metrics to inform ongoing strategy and growth. 

Team Leadership & Collaboration 

• Supervise and provide guidance to the advertising sales representative to ensure alignment between editorial and revenue goals. 

• Acts as a mentor who collaborates closely with the graphic designer and other staff members to produce visually compelling and engaging content. 

• Foster positive relationships with community members, contributors, and stakeholders to generate creative content ideas and maintain trust. 

Stress & Deadline Management 

• Maintain composure under pressure and manage deadlines effectively without causing disruption or frustration within the team. 

• Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and adaptability when faced with last-minute changes or breaking news. 

Cross-Functional Coordination 

• Act as a liaison between editorial, advertising, and design teams to ensure smooth workflow and timely delivery of print and digital products. 

• Support advertising initiatives by integrating sponsored content appropriately while maintaining editorial integrity. 

Qualifications: 

• A strong commitment to the mission and values of the Jewish Alliance and an interest in serving and uplifting the Jewish community of greater Rhode Island. 

• Demonstrated passion for community journalism and a belief in the role of local news to inform, connect, and strengthen communities. 

• Exceptional writing, reporting, editing, and communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, accurate, and engaging content across platforms. 

• Strong organizational abilities, with the capacity to set priorities, manage multiple projects, and work both independently and collaboratively. 

• Solid understanding of journalistic standards, including AP Style, ethics, libel law, accuracy, and fairness. 

• Creative thinking and an eye for improving coverage, storytelling, design, and visuals. 

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and take initiative in shaping editorial direction. 

• Professional experience managing or contributing to digital platforms, including websites, newsletters, and social media. 

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or a related field preferred, or equivalent professional experience. 

• At least three - five years of professional experience in reporting, editing, or newsroom leadership (community journalism experience a plus). 

• Proven ability to lead and motivate a small team, including staff and freelance contributors. 

• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate across departments and community partners. 

• Ability to manage stress and maintain a positive team environment.

• Experience balancing editorial priorities with revenue objectives in a community journalism setting.