The Tuscaloosa News is seeking an executive sports editor to manage and coordinate coverage of athletics and recreation in Tuscaloosa and West Alabama, with an emphasis on University of Alabama athletics and prep sports, across all platforms – print, digital and social media. Coverage comprises everything from daily game reports to features to in-depth enterprise and investigative stories, as well as conceiving, contributing to and overseeing production of frequent special sections.
The ideal candidate would have at least five years of experience in sports journalism as a reporter and editor with management responsibilities at a daily newspaper, a digital-first attitude, sound news judgment, understanding of libel law and journalistic ethics, the ability to work well under deadline pressure, and excellent writing and editing skills. This is not just an administrative position. Duties include managing the sports staff and a robust intern program, making and scheduling assignments, organizing and managing production of content, reporting, writing and editing stories, coordinating with other departments in the newsroom and throughout the organization, handling the logistics of travel, obtaining credentials and other administrative tasks, establishing and maintaining relationships at UA and throughout the community, engaging with readers and site visitors, maintaining a vibrant presence on Twitter and other social media platforms, planning and producing multiple weekly podcasts, and managing and ensuring the success of tidesports.com, our standalone website for UA athletics coverage. Work schedule varies, but would include night shifts, weekends and some holidays, as well as travel. Four-year degree in journalism, communications or related field and experience covering major college athletics preferred.
Send cover letter, resume and samples of online work and writing to Executive Editor Michael James, The Tuscaloosa News, P.O. Box 20587, Tuscaloosa, AL 35402-0587 or michael.james@tuscaloosanews.com. No phone calls, please. The Tuscaloosa News is an award-winning daily newspaper serving Tuscaloosa, Ala., and the surrounding region of west-central Alabama. Competitive benefit plan. Hiring is contingent on a background check and pre-employment drug screen. Drug-free workplace – EOE.
