Special Projects Manager, Content  

Special Projects Manager, Content

Location: This role is remote and can be based anywhere in the US, except for Alaska and Hawaii.

Job Summary:

USA TODAY is seeking an associate manager to lead our Special Projects Team, working across multiple evolving subject areas and reporting to the VP Integrated Initiatives & Innovation. This newsroom role involves extensive collaboration to identify opportunities that support the business strategies of special projects. The ideal candidate will show strong news judgment, oversee short and long-term planning, and use metrics to inform content choices. The Manager will play a pivotal role in driving audience growth and engagement, contributing to the overall success of the USA TODAY portfolio. Additionally, this role requires a flexible and innovative thinker who is focused on finding creative solutions to challenges and continuously improving processes.

• Collaborate with leadership to identify and implement tactics that support the business strategies of special projects, ensuring alignment with overall newsroom goals.
• Demonstrate strong news judgment in the selection, prioritization, and editing of content, ensuring relevance and accuracy.
• Work collaboratively across the Network of newsrooms and with contractors to source appropriate and timely content.
• Create and maintain a content calendar to ensure the needs of each project are met.
• Increase digital audience engagement and grow digital subscriptions through targeted content strategies and innovative approaches.
• Use metrics and analysis to make data-driven decisions on how to best reach and grow the audience, continuously refining content strategies.
• Work across several evolving subject areas, adapting to new trends and topics as needed including the use of AI. Ensure work is completed on time and efficiently, setting priorities and coordinating with colleagues to meet deadlines.
• Write effective digital headlines, social media posts, briefs, and alerts that attract and retain audiences and deepen engagement.
• Serve as a cross-functional liaison between the Content team and colleagues in other divisions.
• Receive assignments as objectives to meet goals and administer company policies that directly affect team members.

• Bachelor's or master's degree in communications, journalism, marketing or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5 or more years of related work experience.
• Experience working in a digital news publishing environment, with a keen interest in using emerging digital tools and platforms to serve audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven experience in content editing, with a strong understanding of news judgment and content curation.
• Ability to analyze audience metrics and adjust strategies, accordingly, using data to inform content decisions.
• Strong understanding of news judgment and content curation, with the ability to prioritize and edit content effectively.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines with attention to detail, ensuring high-quality output.
• Proficiency in SEO and social media optimization, with a commitment to continuous experimentation, learning and improvement.
• Experience with content management systems and digital publishing tools, ensuring efficient workflow and content delivery.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with colleagues across different teams.