Head of Public Discourse

The role

The Head of Public Discourse will lead and expand the Chicago Sun-Times strategy on public discourse and community perspectives. This person will commission and edit commentary, develop staff columnists, and broaden Chicago perspectives across digital, audio, and print platforms.

What you will do

• Lead the Sun-Times public discourse strategy
• Recruit, commission and edit staff writers, freelance contributors, community voices and subject-matter experts
• Coach reporters and columnists to develop distinctive points of view
• Develop recognizable staff voices across platforms
• Work with reporters to identify opportunities for expertise through columns, newsletters, social, video, and events
• Partner with newsroom, audience, visual and product teams to identify formats and platforms for opinion content
• Maintain high standards for accuracy, fairness, clarity and ethical journalism

Required qualifications

• Five or more years of editorial leadership experience
• Strong background in newsroom commentary and journalism
• Demonstrated commitment to journalistic ethics and inclusive coverage
• Excellent news judgment and editing skills
• Strong understanding of Chicago, its communities and the issues shaping the region
• Ability to develop journalists' voices, expertise and public-facing authority on multiple platforms
• Experience developing writers and working with a wide range of contributors and perspectives
• Ability to shape compelling, audience-focused content across platforms

Nice to have

• Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, digital media, public affairs, or a related field
• Advanced degree

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Vacation
• Holidays
• Life insurance
• Disability coverage
• Retirement savings
• Commuter benefits plan

About the company

Chicago Public Media is a large local nonprofit news organization and home to WBEZ 91.5FM, the Chicago Sun-Times, and Vocalo. It is a 100% community-funded newsroom with approximately 250 professionals.