Critograph Student Editor In Chief
: Job Details :

Distinguishing features of the job:

The EIC is the chief executive officer of The Critograph, overseeing all aspects of its departments and their operations. He or she is also the newspaper's major spokesperson and representative to all outside entities. The EIC writes job descriptions and implements policies as necessary for the continued operation of the newspaper. Major alterations to the newspaper's format, personnel (in the form of stipends, excluding structure or duties), and operations must be submitted to the Editorial Board for approval. The editor-in-chief shall also preside over the weekly Editorial Board meetings. This position is required to work 10 hours a week.

Responsibilities and Duties:

Leadership and Editorial Direction:

• Set the overall editorial vision and direction for the newspaper, aligning content with the interests and needs of the university community.
• Lead and inspire the editorial team, fostering a collaborative and dynamic working environment.
• Make final decisions on content, layout, and editorial policies, ensuring consistency and quality across all sections.

Content Management:

• Oversee the planning, assignment, and editing of articles, features, and multimedia content.
• Work closely with section editors to develop story ideas and ensure timely and accurate reporting.
• Ensure all content adheres to journalistic standards, including accuracy, fairness, and balance.

Team Management:

• Recruit, train, and mentor editorial staff, including writers, editors, photographers, and designers.
• Conduct regular editorial meetings to review progress, discuss upcoming issues, and address challenges.
• Provide constructive feedback to team members to improve their skills and performance.

Quality Control:

• Review and approve all content before publication, ensuring it meets the newspaper's editorial standards.
• Address any legal, ethical, or factual concerns that arise during the editorial process.
• Maintain the integrity and credibility of the publication by upholding high standards of journalism.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with other departments, such as advertising, marketing, and design, to ensure cohesive production and publication processes.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the newspaper and university administration, faculty, and the broader community.
• Represent the newspaper at events, meetings, and in communications with external stakeholders.

Budget and Resource Management:

• Oversee the newspaper's budget, working with the business manager or relevant staff to allocate resources effectively.
• Ensure the publication operates within budget constraints while pursuing opportunities for growth and innovation.

Strategic Planning:

• Develop and implement long-term strategies for the newspaper's growth and development, including digital expansion and audience engagement.
• Monitor industry trends and incorporate new ideas and technologies to keep the publication competitive and relevant.

Crisis Management:

• Handle any editorial crises or controversies that arise, making decisions that protect the newspaper's reputation while upholding journalistic integrity.
• Communicate effectively with the university administration and the public during times of crisis or major news events.

Qualifications:

• Be enrolled as a full-time student at the University of Lynchburg.
• Have and maintain a minimum 2.5 grade point average while employed at The Critograph.
• Be able to work well as a leader with staff members and direct their activities.
• Have a working knowledge of all editorial positions, including marketing, management, and finance; college-level courses in each preferred.
• Have been employed at The Critograph in an editorial position prior to assuming job responsibilities.
• Understand libel laws and other rules and regulations regarding journalistic practices.
• Thoroughly understand The Critograph Operations Manual and its policies and procedures.
• Be familiar with the University of Lynchburg Student Government Association Constitution and by-laws.
• Be able to handle responsibility and meet deadlines.

Ideally, the editor-in-chief (EIC) will have at least one year of experience working in the newsroom before assuming EIC responsibilities, although this is not required. The faculty advisor will grant permission to hold this position without the above qualifications.