Description
Editor-in-Chief
The Editor-in-Chief is the full-time senior editorial leader of Asheville Watchdog. The position reports directly to the Board of Directors and works in close partnership with the board, Development Director, and staff to advance the organization’s mission, growth and sustainability, and public trust.
The Editor-in-Chief has full and exclusive responsibility for all editorial strategy, newsroom operations, and journalistic output. This role safeguards editorial independence, ensures the highest standards of accuracy and ethics, and leads the newsroom in producing impactful journalism for the communities Asheville Watchdog serves.
The Editor-in-Chief develops and manages the editorial financial budget approved by the board, performs employee evaluations, and determines salary and raises for editorial staff. The editor writes job descriptions, interviews candidates, and has hiring authority for editorial vacancies and new positions in accordance with the budget.
About Asheville Watchdog
Asheville Watchdog is an independent, nonprofit news organization dedicated to producing rigorous, fair, and impactful journalism that holds powerful institutions accountable and informs the public in Buncombe County and surrounding communities. We focus on in-depth reporting, investigative journalism, and explanatory coverage that serves the public interest.
Key Responsibilities
Editorial Leadership & Strategy
Set and execute the editorial vision, priorities, and coverage strategy consistent with Asheville Watchdog’s mission
Develop and manage the editorial budget, using his or her discretion to deploy resources as needed within that budget to fulfill The Watchdog’s journalistic mission
Uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics, accuracy, fairness, and independence
Make final editorial decisions on all stories, investigations, and corrections
Oversee long-term reporting projects and investigative initiatives
Ensure coverage reflects the needs, diversity, and concerns of Western North Carolina communities
Be the chief spokesperson responding to all requests for comment about Asheville Watchdog editorial content.
Newsroom Management
Oversee all newsroom operations, workflows, and editorial processes
Supervise, mentor, and evaluate reporters, editors, and other editorial staff
NOTE: All Watchdog reporters and editors work from home, but gather weekly for in-person editorial meetings.
Manage assignments, deadlines, and publication schedules
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing newsroom culture
Recruit, hire, and onboard for all editorial vacancies and new newsroom positions in accordance with the budget
Board Relations & Accountability
The Editor-in-Chief is a non-voting ex-officio member of the Board of Directors and shall attend all duly called meetings of the Board of Directors and report to the Board on journalistic developments, newsroom priorities and performance, plans and risks, and any personnel issues material to the Board’s authority and responsibilities.
Provide regular updates on newsroom output, impact, and challenges
Advise the Board on issues related to press freedom, editorial ethics, and journalistic standards
Community Engagement & Impact
Strengthen trust and engagement with readers, sources, and community partners
Plan Watchdog-sponsored public events, working with the Development Director who oversees event logistics
Participate in panel discussions and speak to community groups about The Watchdog and its journalism
Help measure and communicate editorial impact
Qualifications
Significant experience in journalism, with a strong background in investigative or accountability reporting and editing
Proven leadership experience managing a newsroom or editorial team
Deep understanding of nonprofit journalism values and editorial independence
Excellent editorial judgment and commitment to ethical journalism
Strong communication, mentoring, and organizational skills
Familiarity with local, regional, or state government reporting is highly valued
Preferred Attributes
Experience in nonprofit or mission-driven news organizations
Comfort working collaboratively with a business operations partner
Ability to balance daily news demands with long-term investigative projects
Commitment to transparency, public service, and community-centered journalism
Familiarity with WordPress, Content Management Systems, and social media
Salary Range
$75,000 to $90,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Asheville Watchdog offers a competitive benefits package, which includes:
Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision options)
Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and sick leave
Flexible work arrangements and hybrid schedule options
Professional development and training opportunities
Reporting Structure
The Editor-in-Chief reports to the Board of Directors. The Editor-in-Chief has sole authority over editorial content and newsroom operations and resources.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Asheville Watchdog is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Requirements
Qualifications
Significant experience in journalism, with a strong background in investigative or accountability reporting and editing
Proven leadership experience managing a newsroom or editorial team
Deep understanding of nonprofit journalism values and editorial independence
Excellent editorial judgment and commitment to ethical journalism
Strong communication, mentoring, and organizational skills
Familiarity with local, regional, or state government reporting is highly valued
