Senior Journalism Development Director, Local Markets

McClatchy

Sacramento, California

Date Posted August 19, 2024
Industry Newspapers
Specialty Other
Required Education Bachelor's Degree
Job Status Full-time

Description:

The Sr. Journalism Development Director for Local Markets will work with all local newsrooms to help expand community and foundation support for their various local reporting needs. 

The successful candidate will manage existing funder relationships and will work to make initial contacts and develop proposals for new funding opportunities in close collaboration with regional and local editors.  They will write grant proposals and applications and report back to entities that award them. Collaboration and strong communication skills are critical, as is the ability to listen effectively.

The successful candidate will have a passion for vibrant, informed communities and experience in development and prospecting. They will use data to support effective asks and master follow-through to build and strengthen relationships that lead to smart partnerships and funding opportunities .

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:  

  • Understand, assess, and develop plans for areas for growth within identified opportunity categories
  • Research potential donors to gain insight into needs, beliefs and donation habits to understand when one might be a good fit
  • Create proposals and relevant correspondence with potential community funders
  • Communicate the ROI of the program/funding support to funders
  • Actively manage relationships by reporting program/reporting results. Identify follow-up opportunities 
  • Target and build relationships with potential supporters within local markets, statewide and national.
  • Work collaboratively with news, finance, advertising, as well as other departments
  • Plan and participate in fundraising visits and calls with editors and others as needed. Calls could include in-person or virtual. 
  • Create marketing materials, print and digital, to be used for the promotion of events and other fundraising pushes

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:  

  • Strong understanding and an unwavering commitment to accurate and ethical journalism.
  • Must have a broad knowledge of ethical fundraising practices, grant management and general IRS guidelines for charitable giving.
  • Ability to develop and manage positive relationships with donors, funding partners, news leaders and key stakeholders.
  • Must have a working knowledge of grant writing and the ability to submit compelling grant proposals, as well as any needed reporting on grants secured.
  • Ability to prioritize and to work under and meet short- and long-deadlines in a fast-paced, data-driven work environment.
  • Excellent interpersonal, problem solving, and team player skills.  Excellent communication and active listening skills. 
  • Ability to interact professionally and build relationships and develop sources with a diverse array of people.
  • Ability to work well, be professional and courteous with a variety of editors, staff at all levels, donors, foundation leadership and the general public.
  • Computer proficiency (MS Office, Digital editing, web search, databases
  • Ability to travel to various locations as needed for news leader, donor and industry activities.
  • Must be able to work remotely while contributing to a team environment
  • Regular and reliable attendance.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:  

Bachelor’s degree 

Exemplary communication abilities and outgoing, yet poised personality

Strong leadership skills

Excellent organizational abilities and attention to detail

At least five years of fundraising experience (preferably in the local news industry)

Quick thinker and ability to make decisions under pressure

Adaptable – Comfortable with rapid and frequent change.

Collaborative spirit

Interested? To apply, include a persuasive cover letter, your resume and four to six examples of your best work when you apply.

 

About McClatchy:

Our impact is growing every day. 30 growing markets. Over 65 million monthly readers. 57 Pulitzer Prizes. A strong portfolio of dynamic partnerships and smart investments. Our award-winning journalism, digital reach, and commitment to innovative growth have never been stronger. 

As a member of the McClatchy family, you are part of a flexible, empowering, and exciting culture dedicated to creating a work/life balance and consistent opportunities for growth—a place where you have a voice and the ability to impact our future. It’s an exciting time to be here. Our company is experiencing the most transformative period in its history. We’re growing rapidly in the digital space and delivering award-winning journalism in innovative ways.

 

 

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Apply

https://mcclatchy.rec.pro.ukg.net/MCC1008MCLTC/JobBoard/ff11d963-22db-4278-a2b7-709f3b882262/Opportunity/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=ac15c38e-906e-44a6-b07c-4f0b3fc52622&sourceId=67be46c4-fd4b-47f3-8cbe-4f92d333fe43

When applying, mention you saw this opening listed at JournalismJobs.com.