Politics & Government Editor

This role requires someone with deep knowledge and understanding of U.S. politics and the role of government, and experience covering politics in D.C. The ideal candidate has a demonstrated track record of sourcing and breaking news with agenda-setting scoops, overseeing and delivering ambitious investigative journalism, gripping narratives, smart analysis and synthesis pieces, delightful features and innovative visual stories. The ideal candidate also is a skilled manager with experience developing talent and creating a rigorous, supportive and inclusive work environment, who can oversee teams and work across the newsroom with peers and other departments. Because our mission is to speak to all Americans, familiarity and sourcing with figures across the political spectrum is relevant.

At a time of reinvention at The Post, understanding of audience data and the use of applied data in editorial decision-making, as well as the product formats, digital innovations and trends in evolving storytelling, is a must. Insights into how to make politics and political issues directly relevant and accessible to a wide array of readers and viewers of all backgrounds is important. We seek an editor driven by a spirit of collaboration who excels at fostering a shared sense of purpose and working in partnership across the newsroom.

Politics & Government will deliver agenda-setting news, investigative and features on a wide range of topics including national politics, the federal government, national security, criminal justice, immigration, government malfeasance and performance, among other areas. Its editor must have a keen understanding of the most significant political issues and players, as well as political dynamics animating the nation, at this pivotal moment in the country's history. This position requires someone with tested judgment as it pertains to sensitive editorial decision-making, the ability to cultivate strong beat reporting and a vision for driving distinctive coverage. This editor must also have a high metabolism and the ability to execute multiple major storylines at once.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a coverage strategy which produces high-profile, consequential storylines by guiding reporting and editing across Politics & Government.
• Supervise and manage a large team of editors and reporters to produce first-class journalism utilizing a range of storytelling forms, including visually led approaches.
• Where necessary, rethink teams and beats as the story evolves.
• Work closely with the Data & Analytics Team and News Hub to ensure proper story targets, presentation and publishing.
• Work closely with teams across The Post, including Business, Data, Investigative, Local, Video, Audio, Graphics, Photo, and Audience, to mobilize cross-departmental collaborations around consequential story targets.
• Create a strong and supportive work culture that furthers staff development and achievement. Foster clear communication about expectations, mission and growth and manage a wide range of staffers.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• Ten years or more of editing experience across politics, with some experience in areas such as national security, immigration, or other relevant lines of coverage.
• Sharp news instincts and a sophisticated understanding of the issues defining American life today.
• The ability to bring clarity and insight to deeply complex subjects.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a large staff with clarity and empathy.
• Skilled communicator who can lay out a galvanizing mission for the department.
• Prior experience managing a desk, including personnel and budgets, is preferred.

This position is based in our Washington, D.C., newsroom.

Interested applicants should submit a r esum e and a cover letter outlining their vision for the role to our jobs portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, but those received by Mar. 23 will be prioritized. Cover letters should be addressed to Managing Editor Peter Spiegel and Executive Editor Matt Murray.

The salary range for this position is: $161,100.00 - $299,300.00 USD. The actual starting salary within this range will depend on individual skills, experience and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements. This position may be eligible for a bonus or incentive program, and a member of the Talent Acquisition team will discuss bonus payment terms and conditions during the interview process.

The Washington Post's policy for employees is five days per week in the office, with exceptions for newsgathering and general business travel.

Compensation and Benefits

Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
• Company-paid pension and 401(k) match
• Three weeks of vacation and up to three weeks of paid sick leave
• Nine paid holidays and two personal days
• 20 weeks paid parental leave for any new parent
• Robust mental health resources
• Backup care and caregiver concierge services
• Gender affirming services
• Pet insurance
• Free Post digital subscription
• Leadership and career development programs

Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.

The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed.

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