Managing Editor

Remuneration:	negotiable depending on experience
Location:	Johannesburg, Parkhurst
Remote work:	Some remote work allowed
Education level:	Degree
Job level:	Mid/Senior
Own transport required:	Yes
Travel requirement:	Occasional
Type:	12 Months
Company:	MambaOnline.com

The Managing Editor for MambaOnline is a dynamic role focused on guiding the business and editorial strategies to ensure growth, revenue diversification, and robust community engagement. You will be the sole full-time employee of this well positioned niche digital publisher with great potential and support.

Your time will be spent working closely with the Editor-in-Chief to manage MambaOnline’s content, financial goals, and advocacy efforts, solidifying its position as a leading voice for LGBTQ+ issues.

This role requires a highly organised and experienced media professional with an entrepreneurial flair, a strong understanding of operational management, and a passion for LGBTQ+ issues. This is a 12-month contract position with potential for renewal dependent on individual and business performance.

Key responsibilities:

Operational management (65%)

Strategic planning

• Collaborate with the Editor-in-Chief to develop and implement MambaOnline’s long-term strategic planning.
• Identify opportunities for growth and expansion, and areas for operational improvement.
• Conduct market research to understand the needs and preferences of the target audience.
• Analyse data to track progress and make informed decisions.

Budget management and financial reporting:

• Develop and Manage budgets, oversee budgeting, financial planning, and expense management.
• Work with accounting to ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Identify revenue opportunities and cost-saving measures.

Business development and partnerships

• Develop revenue packages, including advertising and sponsored content; build new revenue streams and opportunities through advertisers, funders, and donors.
• Identify and pursue potential revenue streams, including advertising, sponsorships, grants, and donations.
• Pursue grant and funding opportunities locally and internationally.
• Develop and maintain relationships with potential sponsors, advertisers, donors and other partners; Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with existing partners.
• Explore opportunities for collaborations and cross-promotional activities.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of business development efforts.

Production workflow

• Develop and implement efficient workflows for content creation, editing, fact-checking, and publishing.
• Oversee the use of editorial tools and software.
• Implement quality control procedures to ensure accuracy and consistency of published content.

Technology and infrastructure

• Manage digital infrastructure, including content management systems and publishing tools.
• Oversee website maintenance and technology upgrades.
• Ensure cybersecurity measures are in place to protect data and content.
• Explore and implement new technologies to improve efficiency and productivity.

Marketing and community engagement

• Grow and engage MambaOnline’s community via social media, newsletters, and events; respond to audience feedback to deepen connections.
• Plan and run marketing campaigns to boost content visibility, audience growth, and brand awareness.
• Create and implement a PR strategy, including press releases, to elevate MambaOnline’s advocacy and profile in the LGBTQ+ sector and the mainstream.

Community events and merchandise initiatives

• Conceptualise, plan, and oversee 2 to 3 community events annually that serve MambaOnline’s audience and offer monetisation potential.
• Test and implement business plans for MambaOnline-branded merchandise as a new revenue stream.

Advocacy and relationship building

• Foster and nurture relationships with advertisers, funders, and organisations that align with MambaOnline’s values to support LGBTQ+ causes and initiatives.
• Represent MambaOnline at relevant events and public speaking opportunities, advocating for LGBTQ+ issues and building the platform’s credibility as an authoritative voice in the community.

Compliance and Operational Oversight

• Ensure financial records, annual reports, and other compliance documents are prepared and submitted accurately and on time.
• Oversee all daily operations, ensuring smooth execution of tasks and alignment with MambaOnline’s strategic goals.

Editorial responsibilities (35%)

Content strategy and planning:

• Support Editor-in-chief in directing editorial priorities across topics and formats to align with MambaOnline’s mission.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of editorial calendars and content strategies, brainstorm ideas for new content.
• Manage the content calendar, overseeing story ideation, writing, and publishing
• Review and edit articles and other content to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency with MambaOnline’s guidelines.
• Ensure content is engaging and relevant to the target audience.

Editorial leadership and content management

• Write/create and publish content as needed.
• Provide editorial guidance and support to the editorial team; review and edit articles and other content; provide feedback and  mentorship to writers and editors.
• Source and maintain relationships with contributors for a diverse, high-quality content flow.
• Ensure diversity of voices and perspectives in published content.
• Analyse content metrics to optimise traffic, engagement, and audience satisfaction.

Qualifications and Skills

• 5+ years in editorial/content management, ideally within LGBTQ+ or mission-driven media organisations.
• Deep understanding of and passion for LGBTQ+ issues and the community.
• Demonstrated ability to lead organisational strategy, develop new revenue streams, and oversee financial management.
• Strong background in community management with a deep commitment to fostering inclusive spaces.
• Proficient in budgeting, financial oversight, and content performance analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, with a commitment to MambaOnline’s mission and values.
• A degree in journalism, communications, marketing, or business administration is preferred.

Preferred skills:

• Event planning and management experience.
• Familiarity with PR and media relations.
• Knowledge of grant writing and funding processes.
• Video editing skills are desirable, though not essential.

Interviews will occur on a rolling basis, and the successful candidate will start in early 2025. Remuneration is market-related and will be based on experience. If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant skills and experience.

Company Description

MambaOnline is Southern Africa's longest running LGBTIQ+ news and community platform

Posted on 18 Dec 16:33, Closing date 17 Jan