General Job Description

The managing editor of Magnolia & Moonshine magazine oversees every step in the creation of an issue, from coming up with article ideas to giving the proof a final read and authorizing it to be uploaded to the printer. The managing editor works closely with the editor, freelance writers and photographers, and the art director/graphic designer and is responsible for maintaining high standards of quality and brand consistency in each issue. More detailed duties are outlined below.

Annually, the Managing Editor:

• Leads, alongside the editor, quarterly editorial meetings to brainstorm and decide all articles for each issue. This includes articles to slot into standing departments/columns and two to three feature articles.

For Each Issue, the Managing Editor:

• Leads, alongside the editor, monthly editorial meetings to discuss progress/status of issue’s articles and ensure production is on track.
• Creates a production schedule for each issue and keeps all team members aware of and accountable to deadlines of the schedule.
• For articles to be written by freelance writers, makes the assignments, providing the writers with notes on the main topics to be covered by the article, the style and tone desired for the article, contact info for sources, approximate word count and a deadline.
• Collaborates with the art director/graphic designer to create an art-needed and photography shot list, as well as pulls “inspiration” photos (when needed) for every article in each issue. This art/shot list will include all relevant info to be provided to a photographer (along with inspiration photos if needed) prior to a shoot to ensure M&M gets the number and style of photos it wants.
• Works with the editor and art director/graphic designer and photographers to set up needed photo shoots, plus attends shoots to advise (when needed).
• Gathers needed art/photos being submitted and forwards to graphic designer for quality check.
• Writes articles for each issue (both features article and department articles). How many will likely vary issue by issue.
• After ad sales close, works with the art director/graphic designer to create each issue’s pagination.
• Once articles from freelance writers are turned in, edits articles for content, style, grammar and length. Also, adds headline, dek, info box and captions (when needed).
• Offers feedback and suggestions to art director/graphic designer on layout of articles.
• Writes callouts for the cover.
• Proofs all editorial once it is in layout and after each round of changes/cuts and signs off on the proof before it goes to the printer.
• When the issue is out, compiles writers’ and photographers’ invoices and turns them over to the editor/publisher for payment.

Additional Responsibilities

• Attends functions and serves as a “face” of M&M when requested.
• Works with ad sales and the publisher to come up with marketing ideas/plans for special ad sections and special promotions.

Skills

• Excellent writing and editing abilities, including the ability to thoroughly research topics, conduct interviews and write engaging and entertaining articles that adhere to M&M’s brand tone/style.
• At least some knowledge of magazine journalism, including style and format of magazine articles.
• Attention to detail and solid fact-checking and copy-editing skills.
• Basic knowledge of the software M&M uses, including Word, photo-editing software, InDesign, etc.
• Ability to establish priorities, work independently and proceed with objectives without supervision.
• Ability to multitask and work on several projects or assignments at once.