ASHA Leader Managing Editor

I. Purpose 

This position ensures the quality and timeliness of The ASHA Leader in both print and online formats and serves as a frontline ambassador to staff and volunteers. Working closely with the editor-in-chief, the managing editor oversees the production process, creates content, and collaborates with the Leader team and other ASHA staff to plan and package content effectively. Additionally, this role helps promote and distribute Leader content through social media, ASHA’s biweekly e-newsletter, and other channels. A key focus of the position is guiding The ASHA Leader toward a digital-first publishing model while supporting ASHA’s broader content strategy. The managing editor also provides continuity in operations by assisting and filling in for the editor-in-chief as needed. 

II. Key Responsibilities 

1. Manage the production calendar and process for each issue of the print magazine and ensure the timely completion of related tasks; coordinate the proofreading of print copy with the editorial team and input corrections; and prepare articles for online publication in the content-management system, working with the senior online editor-producer. 
2. Participate in planning future print and online content in meetings with other ASHA staff, with attention to format and dissemination—for example, online versus print or podcast, and presentation/timing on social media. 
3. Work closely with authors on online and print article development and guide the article-proposal process; provide substantive editing; occasionally write online news articles, as needed; and coordinate with the art director, editor-in-chief, senior online editor-producer, and other team members on photos, videos, illustrations, and infographics.
4. Support the Leader team in enhancing the magazine’s online visibility while collaborating with other departments to create compelling content packages that provide significant value to ASHA members.
5. Aid in hiring and contracting outside vendors, including freelance writers/writers, printers, and companies providing digital products and services, as needed. 
6. Help fulfill other management duties of the editor-in-chief as needed.      

III. Position within ASHA

IV. Autonomy & Decision Making: 

The incumbent, possessing unique skills and knowledge, is given broad latitude to work autonomously but functions as well as a member of The ASHA Leader team. 

V. Qualifications & Skills

Qualifications: 

a. Knowledge typically acquired through:

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in feature/news writing for a professional audience and media/publication/editorial management
• Experience working for a professional membership organization is a plus
• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, English, media, or related field. Experience equivalent to MA strongly desired

b. Skills 

• Detail specific software proficiency, analytical skills, communication, leadership, problem-solving necessary to fulfill the key responsibilities. Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office 365
• Demonstrated skill in electronic editing
• Demonstrated knowledge of InCopy (Adobe Creative Suite)
• Experience with Microsoft SharePoint and workflow management software preferred
• Experience with Google Analytics (GA4) preferred
• Experience with building content in content-management systems preferred
• Demonstrated experience with/understanding of social media platforms (ie, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) preferred  
• Demonstrated ability to be a true team-player and work well with others in a highly collaborative environment 
• Facility with handling multiple tasks under pressure and meeting continuous and multiple deadlines
• Demonstrated excellence in substantive editing of others’ writing, especially editing professional/academic writing for plain language and active voice
• Acuity in judging editorial priorities, approaches, and political sensitivity
• Substantial experience in and understanding of using multiple media channels to communicate messages and distribute content
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including online interviewing skills

VI. Universal Expectations of ASHA Staff

At ASHA, we believe in working together to make well-informed decisions that will advance the association and the discipline of human communication sciences and disorders; teamwork is vital to achieving our mission, vision, and maximizing impact. As committed stewards of the organization, we care deeply about our professions, members, and staff, and building a strong and welcoming community. We strive to ensure that everyone's voice is heard and valued. We are dedicated to helping each other grow and innovate by encouraging open communication and continual learning. Our focus is on delivering excellent service and value to members, advancing equity, and promoting diversity, inclusion, and the power of science and research. 

VII. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

ASHA is an equal opportunity employer.  As such, it is ASHA’s policy to provide equal opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees without regard for race, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation or LGBT status, genetic information, citizenship, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ASHA's Bylaws. This policy applies to recruiting, hiring, transfer, promotion, compensation and benefits, upward mobility, training and development, access to facilities, termination, and other personnel actions. 

VIII. Disclaimer

This job description reflects the primary responsibilities of the job but is not a detailed description of all duties which may be required of someone in the position. All ASHA staff are expected to take on additional responsibilities from time to time and to help their colleagues.